Numerous celebrities have cloned their deceased pets with biotechnology companies. For $50,000, these companies will insert the DNA of the desired animal into donor egg cells and create a genetically identical pet. As we know, a genome only accounts for a fraction of what makes an individual, along with the environment and other outside factors. While these companies promise a genetic twin, the pet will not be a true clone with potential differences in temperament and personality. By employing genetic engineering, the biotech company Collasal Biosciences, which has termed itself a ‘de-extinction’ company, has concentrated its efforts on diversifying the gene pool of endangered species in the hopes of bringing species out of extinction.
Cloning pets maintains a degree of controversy including ethical and social concerns. There are a variety of businesses that capitalize off of the technique, including Viagen, which has claimed to clone more animals than any other company. However, concentrating the technology into preserving endangered species provides a novel approach to conserving a range of ecosystems. While cloning is trivial, different applications provide the opportunity for growth, preservation, and maintenance of our environment. The article raises relevant questions about the implications of cloning genes in society and what it means for the future of genetic engineering.
Additional Link:
https://viagenpets.com/dog-cloning/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23100856057
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