Colossal Biosciences Debuts AI Platform to Solve Dodo DNA Deficit
AI-generated image · US National Wire
The startup is leveraging a new tool called GenoMorph to identify genetic targets for de-extinction, drawing new investment interest from Peter Diamandis.
Colossal Biosciences has unveiled GenoMorph, an AI platform designed to accelerate the company's efforts to bring back extinct species, TechCrunch reports. The tool is specifically being utilized to target the dodo bird, a project hampered by a lack of genetic data. While Colossal has obtained 100 genomes for its woolly mammoth project, it has only one for the dodo, as tropical climates do not preserve DNA as effectively as colder environments.
According to Colossal CEO and co-founder Ben Lamm, GenoMorph functions as a "treasure map" by analyzing developmental data from pigeons, ducks, quail, and chickens, alongside 3D skull measurements from over 70 bird species. The AI identifies active DNA regions during beak and facial development to predict the genetic switches that defined the dodo. Lamm told TechCrunch the company has already identified roughly 2,300 DNA editing targets for dodo cranial facial morphology.
To validate these predictions without waiting for full breeding cycles, the company is using lipid nanoparticles to deliver gene-editing tools directly into bird embryos. Additionally, Colossal announced its Nicobar pigeon colony—the dodo's closest living relative—now consists of 36 birds and has successfully produced the cells required for eggs and sperm.
The technology has attracted the attention of investor and XPRIZE founder Peter Diamandis. TechCrunch reports that Diamandis has launched a new venture capital firm, NeoGenesis Capital, which will back companies utilizing Colossal Biosciences’ programmable biology platform for applications in conservation, agriculture, and health.