Scientists revive dire wolf, marking first ‘de-extinction’

USA - APRIL 7, 2025 - RESTRICTION: USERS MUST CREDIT “COLOSSAL BIOSCIENCES” HANDOUT — EDITORIAL USE ONLY — In a groundbreaking achievement, a wolf species that disappeared 12,500 years ago, the "dire wolf," has revived by a US-based biotech company, marking the world’s first "de-extinction." Colossal Biosciences, the Texas-based genetic engineering company behind the creation of the colossal woolly mouse, announced the achievement on Monday. Scientists have used ancient DNA, cloning, and gene-editing technology to create three dire wolf pups by altering the genes of a gray wolf, the closest living relative of the extinct species, resulting in a hybrid that closely resembles its prehistoric ancestor. (Footage by Colossal Biosciences/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)