Back From the Dead: 5 Ancient Organisms Brought Back to Life

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It's the stuff of nightmares. Ancient organisms sleeping for thousands of years are awakened by scientists. Does it sound like science fiction? Well, it is actually happening and scientists believe it can do some good.

For instance, in 2014, scientists brought back to life the mollivirus sibericum, a giant virus that remains infectious even after being buried in the Siberian permafrost for 30,000 years. It’s called a “giant” virus because its genome contains a whopping 514 genes.

Do not worry though. Mollivirus sibericum is not dangerous to humans as it only infects single-celled organisms called amoebas. It can however be very useful to humans.

Scientists are studying these little buggers to try and figure out the secrets to their super-resilient biological strategies. Neat! Huh?

Then there are the tardigrades. In 2016, a team of researchers was successful at reviving two tardigrades and a separate egg which were frozen for over 30 years. 

These animals are today being sent to space in order to understand the effects of harsh space conditions on biology and gene expression so as to come up with better techniques to keep astronauts healthy on missions.

Have we piqued your curiosity yet? Then watch our video to find out more about ancient organisms that are brought back to life and their many useful qualities.