Comparison between Cloning and Genetic Engineering
Let me share with you a comparison between Cloning and Genetic Engineering.
| Aspect | Cloning | Genetic Engineering |
| Introduction | A process of production of genetically identical copy of an organism. | A process of modification of an organism’s DNA to introduce specific traits. |
| Types | · Reproductive cloning · Therapeutic cloning | · Gene cloning · Genetic modification |
| Techniques | · Somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) · Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) | · Recombinant DNA technology · CRISPR |
| Purpose | · Replicating organisms with desired traits. · Creating tissues or cells for medical applications. | · Introducing new traits or modifying existing ones. · Improving crop yields · Creating disease-resistant organisms |
| Genetic diversity | · Limited genetic diversity | · Can introduce new genetic material, preserving or enhancing genetic diversity. |
| Ethical concerns | · Questions about the potential for cloning humans. | · Considerations about environmental impact and biodiversity. |
| Applications | · Production of Dolly the sheep · Cloning of animals | · Pest resistance crops · Production of insulin through genetically modified bacteria. |