Why derive embryonic stem cell lines following somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT)?
The derivation of patient-specific human embryonic stem cell lines using this technique (see ‘What is somatic cell nuclear transfer?’) Firstly, these cells could provide a powerful new tool for studying the basis of human disease and for discovering new drugs. Secondly, the resulting embryonic stem cells could be developed into a needed cell type, and if transplanted into the original donor, would be recognized as ‘self’, thereby avoiding the problems of rejection and immunosuppression that occur with transplants from unrelated donors.
