Cloning by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) involves replacing the nucleus of an egg cell with the nucleus of a somatic cell from a donor, to create a zygote with the same nuclear DNA as the donor. The National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC) opposes the use of SCNT for reproductive purposes, given widespread ethical concerns, including evidence of decreased reproductive success and life span in animals.  NSGC supports the use of SCNT using human DNA only in those circumstances where it offers unique potential for therapy or research.  In addition, because it uses human eggs and generates human embryos, SCNT should be limited to only those instances when using SCNT adds value that cannot be achieved through alternative methods, and only with informed consent from both the egg and DNA donors.  

(Adopted 2014; replaces 2004 version--2014 version reaffirmed in 2018)

Do you have positive or constructive feedback regarding this statement? Please submit a comment to be considered during by the NSGC Position Statement Workgroup (PSW) when the statement is up for review. Comments can be submitted anonymously. Log-in is required as this feedback option is available only to NSGC members. Please note that submitting feedback is unlikely to lead to a direct response from the PSW. Comments will be considered when the position statement is reviewed.

Back to Position Statements