SOMATIC CELL NUCLEAR TANSFER-II: APPLACATION AREAS

Abstract

Reproductive cloning as one of the cloning studies performed by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) method, is used in production of transgenics and transgenic livestock. It is also used in protection of species which are about to extinct. Therapeutic cloning studies is rather performed to obtain patient-specific pluripotent stem cells and it aims to use these cells in cell-replacement therapy. Organ generation in human for transplantation, genetic and epigenetic alterations during development or disease, basic research about gene expression and functions, functional male or female gamet production are some of the future goals of cloning. Producing transgenic clones, substances which can be used in treatments of various diseases is also aimed. Through cloning method, embryos of species which are extinct but their genetic structure is somehow available for us to reach, can be produced and using SCNT method development of mammal species can be observed. There are countless advantages of cloning studies, during treatment and research processes, however, this technology comes with some risks.