New step in reviving Woolly's long-haired mammoth

The US researchers said that the successful creation of 14 mammoth genes and implantation into elephants will bring mammoths back to Earth.

>> Mammoths can be "revived"

Successful reconstruction of the mammoth gene

Scientists at Harvard University in Massachusetts have recently taken a new step in reconstructing the extinct animal Woolly mammoth - by inserting 14 genes created into elephants.

Specifically, the researchers studied the DNA structure from preserved Arctic mammoth bones to replicate an exact copy of 14 mammoth genes . They then integrated these genes into the Asian elephant genome.

Lead researcher George Church, who led the study, said: "Woolly Wool used to live in Wrangel Island, the Arctic Ocean 4,000 years ago. Genetic studies show that Woolly mammoths have close relatives. With Asian elephants, we have prioritized the study of genes related to the fine coat, ear size, subcutaneous fat layer and especially hemoglobin (oxygen transport proteins throughout the body) ".

He added to the Sunday Times editor: "We have been able to hold mammoth DNA cells and will conduct transplants in the near future."

Mammoths are about the size of a modern African elephant, 3.3 meters tall and weigh about 7 tons, Woolly's long hair will protect them from the harsh winter.

There are currently three scientific groups that will work together to rebuild the genome and hope to create a prototype to replicate mammoths.

Ancient DNA expert - Professor Alex Greenwood said: "Last week, scientists reported on obtaining DNA from the bone marrow sample on the left leg of a mammoth found in Siberia. ".

DNA samples will be tested in Yakutsk, Russia. Scientists hope to revive the once-extinct Woolly long-haired mammoth thousands of years ago.