DeepSummary
In this episode, Steven Rinella interviews Matt James from Colossal Biosciences about the concept of de-extinction and the possibility of reviving extinct species like the woolly mammoth, the dodo bird, and the Tasmanian tiger. Matt explains the process of using genetic engineering and editing tools to recreate the DNA of these lost species from their closest living relatives. They discuss the potential benefits and challenges of de-extinction, such as restoring ecosystem balance, addressing biodiversity loss, and ethical and regulatory considerations.
The conversation also touches on other applications of these technologies, such as enhancing disease resistance in endangered species, using biocontrols to remove invasive species, and potentially cloning desired traits in animals like hunting dogs. Matt shares his vision of one day seeing a restored species released back into the wild and preventing extinctions through these advancements.
The group explores the implications and feasibility of de-extinction, including the limitations of reviving species like dinosaurs due to the lack of DNA preservation. They also examine the potential risks and moral hazards involved, emphasizing the need for responsible regulation and oversight as this technology progresses.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- De-extinction involves using genetic engineering and editing tools to recreate the DNA of extinct species from their closest living relatives.
- Potential applications of de-extinction include restoring ecosystem balance, addressing biodiversity loss, and enhancing disease resistance in endangered species.
- Ethical considerations, regulatory oversight, and responsible implementation are crucial for the responsible development and application of de-extinction technology.
- De-extinction could lead to economic incentives and sustainability models, such as biodiversity credits and carbon credits, to fund and sustain conservation efforts.
- While reviving extinct species like dinosaurs is currently unfeasible due to the lack of preserved DNA, de-extinction technology can be applied to more recently extinct species and currently endangered species.
- The process of de-extinction involves multiple stages, from identifying genetic targets to cloning and eventually reintroducing the revived species into suitable habitats.
- De-extinction technology has the potential to prevent future extinctions by providing tools for enhancing the genetic diversity and resilience of endangered populations.
- Responsible regulation and public dialogue are necessary to address concerns and potential risks associated with de-extinction technology.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “I don't think that they. I just don't see that they should have been listed here because there's never.“ by Steven Rinella
- “We're really looking at, you know, several hundred edits, which really, in the grand scheme of things, is not massive.“ by Matt James
- “Yes, 100% my goal in life is that before I die, I want to see an endangered species saved by this technology.“ by Matt James
- “I think unfortunate ly, there's some emerging economies around conservation that help drive and sustain effort. If you were able to improve biodiversity in an area that currently has a low baseline of diversity, and you could create this African savannah like diversity in the Arctic, you could eventually begin to apply for things like biodiversity and carbon credits that become sustainable ways to protect nature.“ by Matt James
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Episode Information
The MeatEater Podcast
MeatEater
6/24/24
Steven Rinella talks with Matt James of Colossal Biosciences, Janis Putelis, Ryan Callaghan, Brody Henderson, and Randall Williams.
Topics discussed: Explaining de-extinction; bringing back the woolly mammoth, dodo bird, and Tasmanian tiger; why should we?; and more.
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