“Scientists have mapped the genome of the northern white rhinoceros, a critically endangered species with only two surviving females and no natural means of reproduction. The genomic blueprint will help researchers evaluate lab-grown stem cells as a potential source for creating new rhino reproductive cells,” reports The Doomslayer.
Science Daily adds:
“What’s so exciting about this milestone is that we’re getting closer to being able to rescue animals that otherwise might go extinct during our lifetimes,” says co-senior author Jeanne Loring, Professor Emeritus at Scripps Research and a research fellow at the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. “This is great progress not only for white rhinos, but for the entire field of animal conservation.”
The new effort combined cutting-edge DNA sequencing and genome mapping techniques to build a high-quality genome. Scientists used cells previously collected from a male northern white rhinoceros named Angalifu, who lived at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park until his death in 2014. At the time, his skin cells were cryopreserved in the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s Frozen Zoo®.
“We layered together multiple technologies to make the most accurate genomic map possible,” says Loring. “It’s like the rhino version of the Human Genome Project.”
Scientists have recreated the extinct dire wolf, the wolf’s bigger cousin.
Scientists have created a woolly mouse on their way to recreating the extinct woolly mammoth.
Genetically-modified pigs now provide pork and bacon that people who are allergic to pork can eat.
A genetically-modified chicken lays eggs that people allergic to eggs can eat. Scientists have genetically engineered a cow that produces human insulin in its milk.
An endangered rare duck has made a comeback in China.
A very healthy coral reef is nestled among offshore oil platforms.
Fish species are rebounding off the coast of California due to their young finding a sanctuary in abandoned oil rigs.
