Chilli Morning was an extraordinary stallion, and now 4 years after his passing, his name…
Can You Clone Using Semen?
Can you clone using semen?
“Can I clone my pet using semen I have in storage?” This is a question we get often at Gemini Genetics, and understandably so given the widespread use of semen in animal breeding. It is understandable that pet owners might wonder if the same material could be used for cloning their beloved pets. In this blog, we will answer this question and explain what kind of samples can be used for pet cloning and why.
The Science in Cloning From Semen
In short, the answer is that no, unfortunately cloning is not possible from a semen sample. While semen contains living sperm cells and therefore living DNA, cloning requires a specific type of living cell. This needs to be a cell that contains an animal’s complete genetic profile. Each individual sperm cell only contains half of the animal’s genetic material, so that when it fertilises an egg that also has half of a genetic profile, they can create a complete set of DNA.
Cloning relies on somatic cells, like those found in skin tissue, which contain a complete set of DNA. At Gemini Genetics, we use skin samples for cloning as they contain skin cells called fibroblasts that are ideal for our genetic preservation services. These cells are easily and reliably cultured and contain your pet’s full genome allowing our laboratory to culture them in preparation for the cloning process.
What About Other Samples?
Blood:
Blood samples are sometimes useful for DNA verification but cannot be used for cloning. We offer an independent DNA profiling service to establish a full genetic profile for your cat or dog that requires a small blood sample. You can find out more about this service in the price list tab on our website: Price List: Cloning at Gemini Genetics
Teeth:
Teeth are made up of hard mineralised tissue, and do not actually contain any living cells that cannot be used for cloning.
Saliva and Urine:
These sorts of bodily fluids unfortunately do not contain the intact living cells required for the cloning process.
Skin Samples For Cloning
Skin samples can be collected from your pet either while they are alive with biopsy punches if your veterinarian deems it appropriate at that time, or up until 5 days post-mortem. Both your pet’s body after they have passed and the samples once they have been collected should be kept chilled and not frozen for the best results possible. For more information about our sample taking instructions, you can consult the Emergency tab on our website: Emergency Cat & Dog Cloning Instructions
For more information about our genetic preservation and cell culture services, you can consult our online company brochure here or contact us by email at info@geminigenetics.com
For more information about our US-based cloning partners ViaGen Pets & Equine, you can consult their website here.
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