What Are the Risks of Cloning?

Cloning is the copying of a living organism, producing a separate genetic replica. While scientists have been interested in cloning since at least the early 1950s, the risks associated with this practice have become increasingly evident. (Ref. 1., Res. 1.)

Types

• Artificial embryonic twinning is a cloning method that mimics the natural process by which identical twins are created. Somatic cell nuclear transfer is an unnatural process that involves transferring genetic information to the female egg. (Ref. 1.)

High Failure Rate

• According to Science magazine, animal cloning is inefficient and results in high failure rates. (Ref. 2.) Success rates range from 0.1 percent to three percent. (Ref. 3.)

Developmental Problems

• Even when animals are cloned successfully, they tend to be born larger than their naturally born counterparts. Unusually large organs in these animals often create breathing and blood-flow problems. (Ref. 3.)

Telomeres

• Telomeres are DNA sequences found on the end of a chromosome. As cells continue to divide, telomeres grow progressively shorter, thus posing serious questions concerning the lifespan of a cloned organism. (Ref. 3.)

Considerations

• Scientific evidence indicates that there are some serious health risks and high failure rates associated with animal cloning. Therefore, any attempts at human cloning would expose a developing child to unacceptable risks. (Res. 2.)