Gene editing technology could be used to save species on the brink of extinction

By Cock Van Oosterhout, Professor of Evolutionary Genetics, University of East Anglia

Earth’s biodiversity is in crisis. An imminent “sixth mass extinction” threatens beloved and important wildlife. It also threatens to reduce the amount of genetic diversity – or variation – within species.

This variation in genes within a species is crucial for their ability to adapt to changes in the environment or resist diseases. Genetic variation is therefore crucial for species’ long term survival.

Traditional conservation efforts – such as protected…

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