Cloning in our World
The first example that supports my opinion that cloning would be beneficial is the cloning of organs used in transplants. Scientists hope that one day cloning can be used to generate tissues and organs for transplants. In this procedure, cells and DNA from the person are taken and used to create the needed organ. In theory, the cloned organ could then be transplanted into the patient without the risk of tissue rejection.
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This would significantly reduce the need for organ donation. This method has been used to successfully transplant kidney-like organs in cows. In the three months of observation following the transplant, no sign of immune rejection was observed in the transplant recipient. Also, scientists are working on engineering pigs with organs genetically similar to those of humans. These organs stand less chance of being rejected and could greatly help those in need of organ transplant.
Additionally to organ cloning, another beneficial aspect of cloning is the transgenic. Transgenic contains the area of bioscience where animals' genetic code is manipulated to produce human proteins. One such example are cows that produce human proteins and medicines in their milk, human alpha-lactalbumin. This protein, containing nearly every amino acid needed by newborns, could be mass manufactured for those premature infants unable to nurse.
Besides cloning animals to help improve our health, scientists throughout the world are working on developing other forms of beneficial cloning procedures. Some breakthroughs for cancer have already occurred as a result of human gene cloning. According to US News two teams simultaneously reported in Cell and Science Magazine that they cloned a gene that starts the cell on the path to basal cell carcinoma - a common skin cancer.
Although mutations in this skin gene are usually caused by the sun some are caused by inherited traits. This newest development could soon lead us to a cream that will deliver normal gene to those cells with damaged copies. Other creams being contemplated could produce a true tan with out the sun. This could protect skin from the sun with out damaging it in the process.
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