Advancements in somatic cell nuclear transfer and future perspectives

Reprogramming of somatic DNA by oocytes is inadequate and thus often causes an abnormal epigenetic status in embryos derived from somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). Certain compounds are used to aid the reprogramming and increase the efficiency. High-throughput gene expression analysis can reveal responses to environments to which embryos are exposed in vitro and therefore provide clues to improve culture conditions. This information has been applied to improve the culture system. Somatic cell nuclear transfer can produce genetically engineered animals if somatic cells with mutations are used. Development of mega-nucleases permit genetic engineering of somatic cells at high efficiency and produce genetically engineered animals for various purposes through SCNT.