Weekly Progress Roundup
Colossal Biosciences has resurrected the dire wolf, maternal deaths hit all time low, scientists create groundbreaking maps, and more.
Colossal Biosciences has resurrected the dire wolf, or something like it
News broke this week about Colossal Biosciences’ most recent achievement: resurrecting the dire wolf, a larger extinct cousin of the modern gray wolf.
After sampling some dire wolf remains, scientists at the biotech company were able to identify the genes that gave dire wolves their distinct features—namely larger size, stronger muscles, and pale fur. Using that information, they made a few targeted edits to gray wolf nuclei, developed them into embryos, and implanted them into domestic dogs.
The end result was three animals, named Romulus, Remus, and Khaleesi, that closely resemble the extinct predator.
Because these creatures weren’t actually cloned from ancient dire wolf DNA, some believe that the pups are more accurately described as genetically modified gray wolves. Colossal has defended their claim in turn, arguing that traits are more important than heritage when bringing back a species.
Regardless of where you stand on that question, Colossal’s work represents a genuine milestone in genetic engineering that is already having a positive impact on biodiversity. Using some of the same techniques that created the dire wolves, Colossal also cloned four red wolves, adding much-needed genetic diversity to the critically endangered species.
Maternal mortality hit all-time low in 2023
The latest World Health Organization estimate indicates there were 260,000 maternal deaths in 2023, down from 267,000 in 2022 and 444,000 in 2000.
The maternal death rate has also fallen, from 328 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2000 to 197 in 2023. For context, note that in early 18th-century Britain, there were roughly 1,000 maternal deaths for every 100,000 live births.
Humanity maps the Earth and its creatures
Over the last few weeks, scientists have released a number of groundbreaking maps, including:
That last one has a fun story behind it. Apparently, in 1979, the Nobel prize-winning biologist Francis Crick predicted that such a feat would never be possible.
A good reminder to be cautious when betting against human ingenuity!
Economics & Development:
Energy & Environment:
Earth Fire Alliance Satellite for Detecting Wildfires Is Now in Orbit
Nuclear Power Is Back. And Now, AI Can Help Manage the Reactors
Health & Demographics:
Scientists Unveil Tiny Robot to Help Detect and Treat Bowel Cancer
154 Million Lives and Counting: The Power of Vaccines Revealed
Woman Becomes First UK Womb Transplant Recipient to Give Birth