Scientists are embarking on an unprecedented initiative to create a visible backup system for life on Earth, inviting public participation in this groundbreaking venture. At the World Governments Summit in Dubai, a collaboration between Colossal Biosciences and the United Arab Emirates was announced to establish a global-scale project aimed at preserving endangered species and genetic material.

Introducing the Colossal BioVault

The heart of this initiative is the world’s inaugural Colossal BioVault, set to be permanently located at the Museum of the Future in Dubai. This facility represents a significant financial commitment in the nine-figure range and aims to lay the groundwork for a global network dedicated to safeguarding biodiversity. Participants at the summit were offered a sneak preview through an exhibition showcasing the project’s goals.

The Colossal BioVault is engineered to maintain living cell lines, tissue samples, and genetic material from endangered species using state-of-the-art cryogenic storage technology. This advanced facility will utilize robotics and artificial intelligence for efficient management of biological resources, accommodating millions of samples across more than 10,000 species, with an initial focus on the 100 most endangered species in both the UAE and internationally.

The Importance of Genetic Diversity

In addition to storage, the Colossal BioVault aims to safeguard genetic diversity by acquiring samples from varied populations within species. This endeavor will enhance genomic research, facilitating the development of reference genomes for species that have received little attention in past studies. Moreover, non-proprietary data generated will be accessible to scientists around the globe, cementing the BioVault as a communal resource for research rather than a hidden repository.

Majed Al Mansoori, Executive Director of the Museum of the Future, asserted that the initiative aligns with the museum’s mission to leverage advanced technologies to tackle pressing global issues. “The future belongs to those who harness technology and innovation to address our greatest challenges,” he remarked, emphasizing the project’s role in preserving ecosystems and establishing a sustainable legacy for future generations.

Addressing Biobanking Shortcomings

Colossal co-founder and CEO Ben Lamm pointed out that the BioVault seeks to rectify the longstanding deficiencies in current approaches to preserving endangered species. He indicated that the world is facing a rapid decline in species, and a well-supported, distributed network of BioVaults is essential. “Today’s biobanking methods are often fragmented, underfunded, and uncoordinated,” he stated, underscoring the need for immediate global cooperation.

Lamm highlighted the partnership with the UAE as a pioneering model for government-led collaboration in this area. “Other nations must follow the UAE’s lead and invest in essential bio-infrastructure to prevent further loss of biodiversity,” he urged, aiming to draw broader attention to the strategic significance of biobanking.

A Global BioVault Network

The UAE has initiated a substantial $60 million investment in Colossal Biosciences, which will bolster its Series C funding and overall capital to approximately $615 million. The deal also involves future revenue tied to Colossal’s cryogenic preservation and reanimation platform, indicating an ongoing commitment to this vital cause.

With an educational focus, the BioVault project seeks to engage the public by providing real-time visibility into conservation efforts. This initiative allows visitors to witness scientific processes firsthand, thereby fostering a sense of shared responsibility for biodiversity preservation. Colossal has extended an open invitation to other countries to contribute biological samples representing their unique ecosystems, marking the Dubai facility as a foundational step in a planned, expansive network aimed at protecting global biodiversity.