Expert reviewed • 08 January 2025 • 5 minute read
Cloning technologies, ranging from copying individual genes to replicating whole organisms, have revolutionised biology, medicine, and biotechnology. These techniques enable researchers to explore genetic functions, develop treatments, and enhance agricultural practices.
Whole organism cloning, notably by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), involves removing the nucleus from an egg and replacing it with a nucleus from a donor cell. After stimulation, this egg can develop into an organism genetically identical to the donor.
Key techniques include:
Famous examples include Dolly the sheep (1996), the first mammal cloned from an adult cell, and CC the cat (2001), the first cloned pet.
Gene cloning focuses on replicating specific DNA sequences. This involves isolating DNA, cutting it with restriction enzymes, inserting it into a vector (like a plasmid), and introducing it into host cells to produce multiple copies.
Applications of gene cloning are broad, including gene function studies, protein production, disease research, and industrial enzyme manufacturing.
While gene cloning often has high success rates, whole organism cloning is more challenging, with success rates sometimes as low as 1-5%. Technical complexities, biological limitations (like epigenetic effects), and species-specific differences influence the outcome.
Cloning has widespread applications:
The benefits of cloning—scientific advancement, medical breakthroughs, and species conservation—must be balanced against concerns like animal welfare, the ethics of human cloning, genetic diversity maintenance, and safety implications.