Centre of the Cell > Learn & play > Ethics > Cloning

Cloning

A clone is an exact genetic copy of a living creature.

Scientists clone cells and animals to help understand how diseases, treatments and human cells work.

Picture of two strands of DNA

Introduction

The DNA of a clone is identical to the original cell or organism.
Picture of identical twin boys

What is cloning?

There are two types of cloning: therapeutic cloning and reproductive cloning.
Picture of Dolly the sheep

Why do scientists clone?

Scientists clone cells in the laboratory so that they can understand disease and test medicines.
Picture of a hatched blastocyst

Is it acceptable to clone?

Is it acceptable to create embryos and later destroy them, so that sick people can have medicines to help them?