Reproductive Cloning

Reproductive cloning is a type of cloning that produces a genetically identical copy of an organism. It is accomplished by introducing a nucleus from a donor cell into an egg of the same species that has had its nucleus removed. The egg, now containing the donor cell’s nucleus, is then stimulated to divide and develop into an embryo which can be implanted into a surrogate mother. Reproductive cloning has a wide range of potential uses, from agriculture to medicine. For example, it could be used to create new breeds of animals, to clone endangered species and to create new organs to replace those damaged or destroyed by disease. Cloning could also be used to treat infertile couples by allowing them to create embryos with DNA from one of the partners. Despite its potential, reproductive cloning remains controversial, with some ethical and moral considerations.