Animal Cloning
Animal cloning is an advanced technology that allows the creation of genetically identical copies of an animal.
The clone has the same DNA as the animal from which the genetic material was taken. This technology is used for research purposes, genetic conservation and production of animals with specific characteristics.
The animal cloning process
is carried out in four main phases:
01
Somatic cell collection
A somatic cell (such as a skin or tissue cell) is collected from the animal to be cloned. This cell contains all the genetic material of the donor animal.
02
Preparation of the sample
An egg is taken from a female of the same species. The oocyte is deprived of its nucleus, which contains the DNA. This oocyte becomes an “empty cell” ready to receive new genetic material.
03
Nuclear transfer
The nucleus of the collected somatic cell from the donor animal is inserted into the enucleated oocyte. At this point, the oocyte contains all the DNA of the donor animal and is stimulated electrically to start the process of cell division.
The embryo begins to develop exactly as it would in natural fertilization, but with DNA identical to the donor animal.
04
Implantation and birth of the clone
The cloned embryo is implanted in the uterus of a female recipient who carries the pregnancy. After gestation, an animal genetically identical to the donor animal is born, that is a clone.
What is animal cloning for in the field of animal breeding?
Biomedical Research
- It is used to study human genetic diseases, creating animals with the same diseases or animals genetically modified for xenotransplantation.
- Animal models can be created for human diseases such as diabetes, Parkinson’s, or rare diseases, to study the mechanisms of disease and test new therapies.
Genetic Conservation
- Cloning helps to preserve the genetic heritage of rare animals, endangered species, or breeding animals of high genetic value.
- It is also used to maintain high-quality genetic lines in the field of animal husbandry, ensuring the continuity of desired genetic characteristics.
Production of transgenic animals
- Cloning can be combined with genetic modifications to create animals with specific characteristics, such as disease resistance or the production of proteins useful in pharmaceuticals.
- This allows animals to be developed as transgenics used for biomedical research or for the production of biopharmaceuticals.