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0 pointscraftyguy7y ago0 comments

Sure, but is that because we cannot do it or because we don't really want to do it? I'd argue that bringing back a the elephant bird would be more exciting (from a 'cool' perspective and scientifically) then bringing back a pigeon or parakeet. There are already dozens (or more?) of species of both of those alive today, with some very close relatives included.

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patall7y ago

From what I have heard, there are a number of challenges connected here that have to do that birds are usually not a model organism and we therefore lack certain techniques (and knowledge) on how to handle their cells (especially stem cells) in a laboratory (Not surprising since there is not much medical and therefore financial interest in doing so).

The reason why researchers go for those relatively boring species is their boringness: there are closely related species from which you can borrow cells (and eggs) which you than modify. There is no such thing for a huge (another cost factor) animal with no close relative left.

WiseWeasel7y ago

I'd think it would be more exciting in a 'oh the horror, what have we done' kind of perspective. Those things seem scary as hell.

ddingus7y ago

Same, yet I would gladly see it done.

The idea of bringing something old world into current is compelling, definitely morbid in some sense, and primal.

Yeah, not a good mix, but what can I say? This is a want to see happen. I am likely to regret it, but maybe, just maybe it could be a good thing. Somehow.

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