American scientists claimed probable resurrection of mammoths

Scientists used CRISPR genome editing tool: «We have been working, first of all, upon the genes responsible for survival of organism in conditions of low temperatures: genes of wool cover, large ears, subcutaneous fat, and, particularly, hemoglobin. Now at our disposal we have healthy cells of elephant with extracts of mammoth DNA. We have not presented the results of this experience in peer-reviewed journal yet; however, we are going to do it soon», as geneticist told.

Church is one of the most eminent opponents of mammoth cloning with the help of remains discovered in the eternal congelation. The scientist thinks that it is cleverer gradual reproduction of the entire genome of ancient animals – with the extracts of DNA reserved in the eternal congelation – they are put in the cells of their nearest relatives – Indian elephants.

In opinion of Church, mammoths (and even their inaccurate copies) are to play important role in steadiness of ecosystem of Siberian fenland that is endangered with melting of eternal congelation.

Nevertheless, not all scientists support the resurrection of mammoths. «Now the extinction faces African and Indian elephants. It is no point in returning of one more elephant from the land of dead when we are not able to save even alive kinds from destruction. We had better spend money for protection of that we have instead of animal having disappeared thousand years ago», the ancient DNA expert Alex Greenwood claimed.

With the help of CRISPR tool, scientists have also understood how to avoid fundamental laws of genetics and pass mutations to the next generation with the 97-per cent effectiveness. The magazine Science reported about that on the 19-th of March.