How to Clone Babies by Using Genetic Engineering
Due to the vast advancements in the field of science, scientists have been able to explore the world of cloning and have experienced some success in reproducing mice, plants and sheep using genetic engineering. Human twins, triplets and other identical multiples are examples of cloning that has occurred naturally within an individual. However, cloning by way of genetic engineering and scientific intervention is seen as a highly controversial subject walking the line between morality and immorality.
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Instructions
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Retrieve a sample of DNA from the individual to be cloned. This is usually done by accessing the nucleus of a human cell and removing a portion of its DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid. Somatic cells are used for this process because they make up the body of an individual, thus containing the DNA needed to undergo the cloning process. This type of cloning is called reproductive cloning because its aim is to re-create a currently existing object--in this case, a human.
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Implant the extracted genetic material, or DNA, into an egg. The egg receiving this implantation will be like an open vessel because its DNA has previously been removed to make room for the foreign genetic material.
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Stimulate the egg to undergo cell division. In natural circumstances, the egg will divide on its own, a process essential in creating a human embryo. However, the egg implanted with DNA will need intervention to proceed to this step of cell division. Usually, chemicals and other treatment such as electricity are used to bring a genetically altered egg cell to cell division.
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Transfer the egg to a human uterus to proceed with its development into a baby. After the egg has been monitored in such environments as petri dishes and test tubes, it can be implanted into a female human uterus, much like the final step for in vitro fertilization. The intent is for the egg to continue development as in a normal pregnancy and ultimately produce a baby from cloned genetic material.
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