Potential Benefits of Cloning in Medicine

The birth of “Dolly” the sheep was one of the most talked about events in recent times. It was the first demonstration of what we can call “nuclear equivalence” in cells of any species, proof that the nuclei of somatic cells contain all the genetic material necessary to produce a viable animal through nuclear transfer. It also demonstrated that different phenotypes (at the nuclear level) can be coated. *

The technology developed during these studies made possible not only the precise genetic modification of several species of animals, but also allowed us to better elucidate the process of cellular differentiation that could lead to a new range of therapeutic possibilities for human diseases.

The production of animals from a cell makes their genetic modification in culture possible and the modified cells can be selected before producing the animal. The production of animals with multiple genetic modifications requires the sequential addition, removal or modification of genes.

The genetic modification of cells in culture can not only provide the development of transgenic technology but also facilitate genetic modifications that were previously unlikely. Transgenic animals could play a key role in a range of therapies for human diseases:

• Production of human proteins in transgenic animals.
• Human proteins can be produced in various tissues and body fluids such as blood, urine, and milk. The great advantage of biopharmaceutical production using transgenic animals lies in the fact that the high volume can be produced at low cost;
• Modification of animal milk to increase its nutritional value or remove allergens.
• Use of organs and other animal tissues for transplantation into humans.
• Pig organs, for example, are very similar to those of humans and are considered suitable for transplantation. The biggest problem, however, is rejection. Although not all mechanisms involved in the rejection process are fully understood, it is known that the antigen most frequently involved is α-1,3 galactose, which is present in pigs but not in humans, which therefore triggers an immunological response. Nuclear transfer of cells in culture may facilitate the pig’s gene coding for aa -1,3galactosi1 transferase, eliminating the risk of rejection. Potential organs for transplantation may be the heart, lungs, kidneys, liver and pancreas;
• Nuclear transfer technology may also be useful for producing disease models in species that are more physiologically similar to humans to study disease progression and potential therapies.

Pioneering Genetic Advancements Through Nuclear Transfer

At Chedid Grieco, we utilize cutting-edge nuclear transfer technology to explore groundbreaking therapeutic possibilities for human diseases. From genetic modification to potential organ transplants, this innovative science opens doors to life-changing treatments. Miami patients traveling to our Brazil clinic can access world-class care while benefiting from cost-effective solutions. Learn more on our fertility tourism page. Contact us today at 305-912-0050 or complete our online contact form to take the next step toward advanced genetic therapies.

* Newton, H.; Fisher, J.; Arnold, J.R.; Faddy, M.; Gosden, RG Permeation of human ovarian tissue with cryoprotective agents in preparation, Hum. Reprod. 1998; 13:376-80.