Clone monkeys using SCNT technique
Chinese researchers bring a new evolution in Genetic science by creating clone monkeys using the Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer (SCNT) technique. Recently, researchers have created a sheep, Dolly, by using SCNT. The technique SCNT evacuates the nucleus of an egg cell and supplanting it with nuclear material from a body cell.
The two genetically identical monkeys are 7 and 8 weeks old, named Zhong Zhong and Hua Hua, delivered from fibroblast cells from a monkey fetus. Researchers also conducting new innovations in genetics with the help of SCNT.
Researchers create about 20 different animals, but the attempts to clone non-human primate species, but they all failed, said Mumming Poo, senior author of the study.
While, Scientists planning to extend the SCNT cloning technique to primates, but it’s very difficult. To overcome the issue, the research team designed a method that helps to develop an artificial embryo.
By using the method, researchers created 79 embryos and implanted them in 21 female monkey surrogates. The results show the births of the two monkeys.
While, the experiment brings up some issues, such as laws and regulations. Also, researchers plan to improve the SCNT approach. They also plan to watch how Zhong Zhong and Hua Hua develop physically and mentally.
The creation of the research also helps to understand human diseases, such as autism, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s.
Currently, the two monkeys Hua Hua and Zhong Zhong are kept in bottle fed. Scientists also check the monkey’s mental health regularly.
Senior study author Qiang Sun, director of the institute’s Nonhuman Primate Research Facility, said, the two monkeys are very active and healthy, they progress very rapidly like human babies. Day by day, they seem more active and their motor system is much more developed and there are no signs of abnormality.
