Cloning is a scientific process which involves creating an exact genetic replica of an organism, usually a plant, animal or cell. This happens when you copy the DNA of the original individual and you use it to make a genetically identical organism. Surprisingly, cloning also occurs quite frequently in a natural way, for example identical twins. But it can also be artificially made through scientific techniques like somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) or reproductive cloning. In reproductive cloning, the organism is implanted into a surrogate mother where it develops and grows into a genetically identical copy of the original individual. Therapeutic cloning, known as SCNT or embryo cloning, is used for medical purposes. The aim is not to create a cloned organism but to make stem cells which match genetic wise with the patient. These cells can replace damaged or diseased tissue or organs, cure different medical conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or Alzheimer.
Cloning isn’t such a new concept if you think about it: the first attempts started in the 19th century when a German biologist demonstrated that you could, in fact, copy someone’s DNA and create a replica. Over the years, there were a couple attempts which failed and some which were successful. In 1979, the first genetically identical mice were produced, then cows, sheep and chickens, but all of them were made from early embryos. If animals had been cloned before, then why was Dolly the sheep such a big deal you may ask? Well, she was the first ever mammal made from a somatic cell of an adult animal, not from an embryo.
DOLLY THE SHEEP
In 1996, after no more than 276 attempts, the first ever clone made using adult somatic cells was produced. The world-wide famous sheep, Dolly, gained it’s popularity after being born in Scotland, Edinburgh. Scientists at the University of Edinburgh had had several previous attempts, 276 to be exact, but none were working, when they succeeded at last. Keith Campbell, Ian Wilmut and other colleagues at the Roslin Institute were the ones who made history after creating Dolly, also known as “the world’s most famous sheep”. She had 3 mothers: one provided the egg, one the DNA and another one carried the cloned embryo to term. Dolly lived 7 long years before dying from a progressive lung disease unrelated to her cloning.
The subject of cloning is considered controversial as the opinions are divided. Some consider cloning to be unethical as the process itself is unnatural, in these circumstances at least. There are several ethical, moral and religious reasons which support this idea. The concept of manipulating and creating life, the interference in the natural order of the world is frowned upon by many persons. Besides, cloning comes with significant health risks regarding the cloned individual but also the surrogate mother and could be unpredictable. Overall, the controversy aroung this topic reflects broader debates regarding scientific research and ethical boundaries but no one can deny that, in time, it can help the medical fundamental sciences evolve.
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