A US biotechnology company says it has entered a critical new phase in its effort to revive the extinct bluebuck, a South African antelope species that disappeared more than two centuries ago.
Colossal Biosciences, a Dallas-based genetic engineering company known for its de-extinction research, confirmed that its “Bluebuck Project” has already been underway for two years. The company is now progressing into genome-editing work aimed at recreating traits of the lost species.
The bluebuck, scientifically known as Bluebuck, once roamed the grasslands of the southwestern Cape region. Recognised by its bluish-grey coat and distinctive curved horns, the animal became extinct around 1800 after extensive hunting during the colonial period.
The species is widely considered one of the first large African mammals driven to extinction by human activity.
Scientists move into genome-editing stage
According to the company, researchers obtained bluebuck DNA from a preserved skin specimen housed at the Swedish Museum of Natural History.
That DNA has been used as the foundation for comparative genomic analysis, allowing scientists to identify traits unique to the extinct antelope.
Researchers are now inserting selected bluebuck genes into cells from the Roan Antelope, the bluebuck’s closest living relative.
If the editing process succeeds, the next stage will involve creating embryos using the modified cells. Those embryos would then be implanted into surrogate roan antelope females, with gestation expected to last roughly nine months.
The announcement follows growing international attention on Colossal’s broader de-extinction work. The company gained global publicity after revealing the birth of genetically engineered dire wolf pups last year, reviving interest in whether extinct species could one day be partially restored through biotechnology.
Debate grows over de-extinction science
The bluebuck project has also renewed ethical debates around de-extinction research.
Critics argue that efforts to revive extinct species risk diverting resources away from protecting animals currently facing extinction. Others question whether recreated animals can truly be considered the original species they resemble.
Supporters, however, say the technologies being developed may play a significant role in future wildlife conservation.
Many of the tools used in de-extinction projects — including genome sequencing, gene editing and advanced reproductive techniques — are increasingly being explored to help endangered species maintain genetic diversity and survive environmental pressures.
This is particularly relevant for antelope populations. Of the roughly 90 antelope species alive today, conservation groups estimate that nearly one-third are threatened or near-threatened.
Scientists involved in the field believe genetic rescue technologies may eventually help vulnerable species adapt to disease, habitat loss and climate change.
In addition to the bluebuck, Colossal Biosciences is pursuing similar work involving several other extinct animals, including the woolly mammoth, dodo, moa and thylacine, also known as the Tasmanian tiger.
While many of these projects remain highly experimental, advances in biotechnology continue to push the boundaries of what was once considered impossible.
Source: Original reporting based on statements released by Colossal Biosciences and publicly available scientific information.
