The Era Of Resurrection Biotechnology {Shame On Extinction}

It is no doubt that some animals have gone into extinction, and some will still go into extinction. But what if I tell you that you can breed back an animal that had gone into extinction, say 500years ago?

We have had of technologies that can prolong life indefinitely, and other technologies that can reverse the process of death. But this is nothing compared to the process of de-extinction.

Resurrection biotechnology (also called de-extinction) is an emerging tech that seeks to bring revival to creatures that have long gone into extinction. This sounds impossible. But I humbly wish to remind us of this fact:

A perfectly established technology is almost indistinguishable from magic – Arthur C. Clarke {Paraphrased by me}

Processes of resurrection biotechnology

There are some proposed methods in achieving the process of Creature Revivalism in resurrection biotechnology. We’ll look at it. But before I continue, I’d love to tell you that a prototype has been created.

A Pyrenean Ibex (bucardo) that was officially extinct in 2000 was re-bred with this tech (this is actually the first creature to survive the process)

Back to the process of creature revivalism

• Cloning: This is not a new term in the field of science. In this process, a DNA sample from a preserved extinct specie is replicated and used to clone a new specie with the aid of surrogate parents. This process was proposed by Dr. Stewart Brand. The cloning process of the bucardo is depicted in the image below
• Selective Breeding: This is another process in the revivalism of extinct creatures. In this process, a sample of DNA, probably extracted from the bone remains of the creature, will be recreated. And then compared with a living specie that must have evolved from the extinct specie, and a reverse-evolution will be initiated through selective breeding. Example of this could be: Taking a DNA sample of Homo erectus and recreating it; then using it to reverse the trend of evolution in a modern man (Homo sapiens), thus recreating the extinct specie. Fascinating, isn’t it? The specimen being processed for this procedure is the Aurochs     (officially extinct in 1627)  

Opponents to resurrection biotechnology

It is not uncommon that a technology like this will raise some eyebrows. Some have argued that; instead of spending so much to revive an extinct specie, it is better to use it to preserve endangered species. Does it really work like that?

The point I’m looking at is: what if, one day, scientists revive a creature that will disrupt the balance of our ecosystem? A dinosaur for example.

Well, for me, I’d love some Neanderthals to be revived. I want to have a feeling of what it’s like to live through history. "Extinction" is finally humiliated.

Thanks for reading

Image sources: Img1, Img2, Img3

References for further reading: ref1, ref2, ref3