Eli5 How does cloning animals work?

Question

I saw an article of the black foot ferret being successfully cloned and was just wondering the process of cloning.

In: 2

Answer 1

Cloning is a complicated process that involves a variety of steps. The first step is to obtain genetic material, typically through a process called somatic cell nuclear transfer. In this process, the nucleus of a donor cell is removed and inserted into an egg cell that has had its nucleus removed. This egg cell is then stimulated so that it begins to divide and form an embryo. The embryo is then implanted into a surrogate mother, who carries the pregnancy and gives birth to the cloned animal. Once the animal is born, it is monitored for health and development to ensure that it is a successful clone.