Genetic Engineering of Elephants

The video discusses Professor George Church's innovative plan to bring back the woolly mammoth by genetically modifying modern elephants. Using CRISPR technology, Church's team aims to insert mammoth genes into elephant DNA to create a mammoth-like creature. The modifications focus on cold resistance, including changes to hemoglobin, fat, and fur. This groundbreaking research combines cutting-edge genetic techniques with a vision to revive extinct species.

What is the main goal of George Church's project?

• To study elephant behavior

• To bring back the woolly mammoth

• To create a new species of elephant

• To improve elephant intelligence

Which technology is used to insert mammoth genes into elephant DNA?

• Stem cell research

• Gene therapy

• CRISPR

• Cloning

What is the primary purpose of using CRISPR in this project?

• To create new genetic diseases

• To accurately modify genomes

• To speed up the cloning process

• To enhance elephant intelligence

What is the role of George Church's team in the project?

• To modify the elephant genome

• To clone existing elephants

• To study mammoth fossils

• To train elephants for cold climates

What is the significance of the year 2013 in the project?

• The first mammoth was cloned

• The project was completed

• The project was first proposed

• CRISPR technology was first used

What is the first genetic change needed for cold resistance?

• Thicker skin

• Cold-resistant hemoglobin

• Larger ears

• Stronger bones

Why is subcutaneous fat important for the modified elephant?

• To improve swimming ability

• To enhance speed

• For cold protection

• To increase intelligence

What type of fur is necessary for the genetically modified elephant?

• Short and sleek

• Sparse and coarse

• Long and woolly

• Curly and thin

What is the expected outcome of the genetic modifications?

• A smaller version of the woolly mammoth

• A completely new species

• An elephant with mammoth-like features

• A larger version of the Asian elephant

Which feature is NOT a focus for making the elephant more mammoth-like?

• Cold-resistant hemoglobin

• Subcutaneous fat

• Longer tusks

• Woolly fur