The term cloning describes a number of different processes that can be used to p

Question

The term cloning describes a number of different processes that can be used to produce genetically identical copies of a biological unit. The copied material, which has the same genetic makeup as the original, is referred to as a clone. A number of different biological entities have been cloned, from the smallest section of a single gene, through to tissues, organs and even entire animals. More than twenty years have passed since 1996 when Dolly the sheep was the first mammal to be created from an adult cell using a technique called ‘somatic cell nuclear transfer’. This process is still of great interest to science and medicine today since it is believed to be the key to therapeutic cloning and improved organ transplantation. For your discussion this week briefly describe (one or two paragraphs) the process of somatic cell nuclear transfer and how it is used to create cloned cells. Explain what you consider to be the positive and negative aspects of cloning both scientifically and morally, giving at least three ‘for’ and three ‘against’ points – Discuss whether you think it is a good use of science and will benefit mankind or whether you believe it is unethical and should no longer be pursued? You can expand this discussion outside of therapeutic cloning if you wish and consider the idea that one day it may also be possible to clone whole human beings.

Explanation / Answer

The immediate advantage of cloning is in increasing numbers of stem cells that are extracted from somebody. Similarly, cloning can also be used in conjecture with 3D bio-material printing to make artificial organs. Cloning can also be used to help couples who are not able to conceive a child.

The first point against cloning is that if all clones are produced from a template, they will inherit all the positive and negative properties of the template. There is a large scope of abuse in cloning, such as artificially boosting traits to gain competitive advantage. It also upsells the feared trend of designer babies, where babies would be clones of perfect looking people with genetic modifications for enhanced traits.

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse T
• Subjects

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.