Embryo biotechnology in reproductive medicine

Mammalian embryo biotechnology with multiple applications in reproductive and therapeutic medicine has been summarized in this review article. Risk factors at the molecular, genetic and chromosomal level that profoundly influence the outcome of reproductive cloning have been included for serious considerations. Interspecies embryo cloning has turned out to be a unique bioassay to reveal the embryonic developmental capacities of various adult somatic cells. New approaches for in-vitro cloning of individual blastomeres (early embryonic cells) will lead to ES cells without destroying embryos. Novel attempts for embryo splitting have been presented with various implications for assisted reproduction. Predictive progress and prognostic views for human embryo biotechnology and patients' benefits are outlined for the near future. Social and ethical issues concerning embryo biotechnology are being discussed in reference to public opinion polls or ethics committee guidelines.

Keywords
somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), interspecies embryo cloning, embryo splitting, blastomere cloning, assisted reproductive technologies (ART)