Defensins identified through molecular de-extinction

Molecular de-extinction is an emerging field that identifies potentially useful molecules throughout evolution. Here, we computationally mine genomes, searching for molecules called defensins, which play a role in host immunity. Our approach leads to the discovery of six undescribed β-defensins, five of which are derived from two different extinct bird species and one from a mammalian species. These organisms included an extinct moa species (Anomalopteryx didiformis) that inhabited New Zealand and the extinct Spix’s macaw (Cyanopsitta spixii), which was endemic to Brazil, as well as the black rhino (Diceros bicornis minor). Evolutionary and structural analyses of the β-defensins are performed to further characterize these molecules. This study identifies molecules from extinct organisms, revealing defensins and opening new avenues for antibiotic discovery. [Display omitted] •Molecular de-extinction identified β-defensins in extinct genomes•β-defensins are mined from extinct avians and a critically endangered mammal•This study provides new insights into the molecular evolution of defensins Molecular de-extinction aims to discover useful molecules throughout evolution. Through genome mining, using a combination of computational tools, Ferreira et al. identify six β-defensins derived from the extinct New Zealand moa, the extinct-in-the-wild Spix’s macaw, and the critically endangered western black rhino.