Scientists reactivate DNA from extinct tiger

DNA from an extinct animal has been re-activated in a laboratory for the first time.

Scientists took genetic material from the Tasmanian tiger —– officially declared extinct 70 years ago —– and inserted it into mouse embryos where it played a role in developing cartilage and future bone.

Dr Andrew Pask, from the University of Melbourne in Australia, who led the research, said: “As more and more species of animals become extinct, we are continuing to lose critical knowledge of gene function and their potential.”