Animal Feces Yield Live Cells: A New Hope for Endangered Species

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As a source of genetic material, scientists have found a new conservation tool: animal feces.

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Living intestinal cells found in fresh droppings enable non-invasive DNA collection by researchers.

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Live cells have been successfully retrieved from the excrement of mice and elephants by the "poo zoo" research.

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These could become sperm and eggs for IVF-based reproduction if they are transformed into stem cells.

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Without upsetting wild creatures, this strategy might aid in restoring endangered populations.

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Eliminating bacterial contamination while removing viable cells from feces is a significant task.

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Many species' reproductive biology is poorly understood and needs more study.

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The "poo zoo" supports gene-editing and biobanking initiatives to protect biodiversity.

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Although protecting habitat is still important, cutting-edge techniques like this could aid in the fight against extinction.

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