Korean Journal of Veterinary Research  2015;55(3):155-161

doi:10.14405/kjvr.2015.55.3.155

Evaluation of conservation of endangered species through somatic cell nuclear technology.

Sang Hwan HYUN 1 ; Yeon Woo JEONG ; Kyu Chan HWANG ; Guk Jin LEE ; Il Suk YANG

Affiliations

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Keywords

artificial reproduction; conservation; endangered species; ethical and legal issue; somatic cell cloning

Country

Republic of Korea

Language

Korean

Abstract

The number of wild animal species is gradually decreasing due to poaching, hunting and habitat loss. While several endangered animal species have been successfully preserved at the zoo, assisted reproductive technology (ART) must be applied to restore wild animals. In the case of critically endangered animals, somatic cell cloning is considered the most appropriate method of ART. Somatic cell cloning can be beneficial for the reproduction of endangered species with limited female populations. However, gene and cell banks, and understanding of reproductive physiology and optimization of ART for wild animals are urgently required for further activation of artificial reproduction of endangered species, which enlarges its application and maintains biodiversity. Care should also be taken to consider ethical and legal issues associated with somatic cell cloning for conservation of endangered animals.