Breakthrough: Scientists Recover RNA from Extinct Tasmanian Tiger
Introduction
In a groundbreaking achievement, scientists have shattered the boundaries of genetic research by successfully recovering and sequencing RNA from an extinct species - the Tasmanian tiger. This remarkable feat not only pushes the boundaries of what was once thought possible but also holds the promise of potentially resurrecting species that were long believed to be lost to history.
Unlocking the Past with RNA
Dr. Marc Friedländer, an associate professor in molecular biology at Stockholm University, expressed the astonishment surrounding this accomplishment, stating that many believed it couldn't be done. RNA, a molecule essential for conveying genetic information within cells, is highly transient and susceptible to degradation. However, this breakthrough proves that even the most fragile biological materials can reveal their secrets to determined scientists.
A Species Resurrected Through RNA
Love Dalén, a professor of evolutionary genomics at Stockholm University, co-led this extraordinary project. He explained the significance of this milestone: "RNA has never been extracted and sequenced from an extinct species before." The ability to recover RNA from extinct species opens the door to the tantalizing possibility of resurrecting these creatures in the future.
Unveiling the Genetic Blueprint
To bring back an extinct species, scientists need a comprehensive understanding of their genetic makeup. This involves not only DNA but also RNA. Dalén emphasized that researchers need to know "where the genes are and what they do, and in what tissues they are regulated." RNA offers this crucial information, providing insight into gene activity and regulation.
RNA Unveils Hidden Genes
Dr. Friedländer highlighted an essential advantage of working with RNA. While DNA provides information about the genes present, RNA reveals what these genes were actively doing. "If we can take the DNA of an extinct animal, we know what genes were there," he explained. "But if we get the RNA, we actually know what the genes were doing, which ones were active." This added dimension of information is invaluable for de-extinction efforts.
The Remarkable Tasmanian Tiger
The Tasmanian tiger, or thylacine, was a carnivorous marsupial that met its tragic end in 1936. The last known thylacine perished in captivity at the Beaumaris Zoo in Tasmania. European colonization led to the animal's classification as a pest, and a bounty was offered for their eradication in 1888. The preservation of its natural habitat in Tasmania has made the Tasmanian tiger a focal point for de-extinction efforts.
Ethical Considerations
While the idea of resurrecting extinct species is thrilling, it comes with ethical questions. Dr. Friedländer acknowledged this, particularly regarding the Tasmanian tiger's extinction at the hands of humans. He stated, "In this case, we would be kind of correcting our own interference." This ethical dimension adds complexity to the concept of de-extinction.
Uncovering the Origins of Pandemics
The implications of this research extend beyond species revival. Studying RNA from extinct animals could help us understand the origins of pandemics. RNA viruses have been responsible for significant disease outbreaks throughout history, including the recent coronavirus pandemic. Dalén pointed out that we can now search for these viruses in preserved animal remains, shedding light on the nature and origins of pandemics.
A New Era for Museum Collections
This groundbreaking study also revolutionizes the use of museum collections. Dr. Dalén highlighted the vast potential, stating, "There are millions and millions of dried skins and tissue from insects, mammals, and birds in museum collections worldwide." This newfound ability to recover RNA from these specimens opens up a treasure trove of genetic information waiting to be explored.
Conclusion
Recovering RNA from an extinct species is a scientific milestone that holds the promise of resurrecting lost creatures and understanding the origins of pandemics. While ethical considerations loom large, the possibilities are as vast as the wealth of information stored in museum collections around the world. The future of genetic research has never looked more promising.