Colossal Biosciences Uses AI to Advance Dodo De-Extinction Efforts
Colossal Biosciences, a de-extinction company, has developed an AI tool named GenoMorph to identify key DNA targets. This aims to accelerate the process of bringing back the dodo.
De-extinction firm Colossal Biosciences has unveiled GenoMorph, an artificial intelligence tool designed to speed up the process of returning the dodo bird to existence. The platform identifies critical genetic code responsible for the bird's unique traits.
According to the company, GenoMorph has already pinpointed 2,300 DNA targets that shape the dodo's beak and facial structure. "AI helps us process vast datasets and quickly identify the essential elements influencing the dodo's appearance and characteristics," stated Colossal CEO Ben Lamm. The goal is to pinpoint genetic edits with the most significant impact on the bird's iconic features.
The development of GenoMorph incorporated developmental data from species such as chickens and pigeons. The AI model was trained to recognize DNA patterns in specific structures, enabling the filling of gaps in data for species where it is missing. This approach addresses challenges associated with ancient DNA, including fragmentation and rapid degradation, particularly in environments like Mauritius, the dodo's native habitat.