Attempts at Applying Cloning to the Conservation of Species in Danger of Extinction

Abstract

SUMMARY: The somatic cloning by transfer of the nuclei of differentiated adult cells to previously enucleated oocytes is a\rpromising technique for the production of embryos of high genetic value. The better mastering of somatic cloning gives us the possibility\rto produce embryos from endangered species.\rThe huemul is an Andean native deer, that has been declared an endangered species, it holds a great patrimonial value and it is a\rChilean national emblem.\rIn Chile the huemul has the status of protected animal on thirteen Parks and National Reserves managed by Corporacion Nacional\rForestal (CONAF). This protection, however, is considered insufficient due to the few geographical connections between the different\rprotected areas. Furthermore, a great proportion of these areas are not subjected to use or they do not constitute adequate habitats.\rMany authors have proposed that the use of biotechnological methods in reproduction and assisted procreation may help\rconservational programs orientated to the protection of deer species threatened by extinction. All the anterior prompted us to initiate this\rstudy concerning the production of cloned huemul embryos.