AI Tool GenoMorph Helps Scientists Bring Back the Dodo

Biotech company Colossal Biosciences has launched an AI platform called GenoMorph. It combines 3D morphology, comparative genomics, and developmental biology to find genes that can be edited when genetic data is limited, speeding up de-extinction research.

The platform is now being used to bring back the dodo. Unlike the mammoth project with 100 genome samples, only one dodo genome is available, as the tropical habitat is bad for DNA preservation. The team combined genetic data from over 70 bird species with skull measurements, and has found about 2,300 DNA editing targets for the dodo's head and face shape.

CEO Ben Lamm called it a "treasure map" of the dodo genome, saying it skips the search through huge numbers of gene differences. The company has also grown key cells that can become eggs and sperm, and its Nicobar pigeon flock now has 36 birds. XPRIZE founder Peter Diamandis has set up a new investment firm to back related biotech companies.