Colossal Biosciences announced on Wednesday the launch of GenoMorph, a new AI platform intended to accelerate its de-extinction initiatives. The platform is designed to identify genes that could be edited in projects where genetic data is limited.
GenoMorph integrates advanced 3D morphology, comparative genomics, and developmental biology. Colossal Biosciences is applying this technology to its dodo de-extinction project, which has access to only one dodo genome, in contrast to the 100 woolly mammoth genomes available for that project.
According to Colossal CEO Ben Lamm, the platform was built over a year using developmental data from various birds and genetic information combined with 3D skull measurements from over 70 bird species. The AI learns which DNA regions are active during the development of beaks and facial structures in birds, predicting genetic switches that may have contributed to the dodo's appearance.
The company has identified approximately 2,300 potential DNA editing targets for the dodo's cranial facial morphology. Colossal Biosciences has also developed a system that uses lipid nanoparticles to deliver gene-editing tools into developing bird embryos, allowing for testing of genetic changes without waiting for a full breeding cycle.
Additionally, Colossal Biosciences reported that its Nicobar pigeon colony now consists of 36 birds and that it has successfully created essential cells for eggs and sperm. Peter Diamandis, an investor in Colossal, has founded a new VC firm, NeoGenesis Capital, to support companies utilising Colossal Biosciences' programmable biology platform.