Cells can also be taken from a male. True human cloning would require taking a somatic cell, as opposed to a reproductive cell such as an egg or sperm cell, from a person and removing its nucleus. The DNA of the somatic cell is transferred to an enucleated egg cell. A clone is not an exact replica of the original, but just a much younger identical twin. Concern has been raised that a black market for embryos would arise.
Scientists are also concerned about the medical risks and uncertainty associated with human cloning.
For an in depth discussion on the arguments for and against human cloning, please visit the Religious and Ethical Debate page. Last modified 8 April 1998.