The natural process in producing an offspring is through in vivo fertilisation of an oocyte by sperm. Animal cloning via somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) provided the possibility of producing live offspring independent of gametes’ interaction. The procedure involves the reconstruction of an enucleated oocyte with a somatic cell followed by nuclear reprogramming of the differentiated diploid nucleus to an undifferentiated totipotent embryonic state. This allows the reconstructed embryo to grow and produce offspring nearly similar to the original animal that dedicated the somatic cell. SCNT is a very expensive technique and due to the numerous unknown signals involved in nuclear reprogramming and epigenetics, it has extremely low efficiency and low survival rates of offspring. Extensive use of this technique is associated with the reduction in genetic diversity. Nevertheless, it provides an opportunity to preserve an endangered breed of camel or to resurrect the deceased elite camel. This review concentrates on the efficiency of SCNT in dromedary camels and the possibility of using this technique in routine practice.
Animal cloning, Camel, Reproductive technologies
