The mammal copiers – advances in cloning
Glossary
asexual reproduction. A type of reproduction that involves only one parent and produces offspring that are genetically identical to the parent.
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). The nucleic acid forming the genetic material of all organisms with the exception of some viruses which have RNA. DNA is present in the nucleus and other organelles such as mitochondria and chloroplasts.
genetic engineering. A set of procedures whereby a specific piece of DNA can be excised from a chromosome and inserted into the DNA of a chromosome of a different organism.
immune system. The cells, tissues and organs that assist the body to resist infection and disease by producing antibodies and/or altered cells that inhibit the multiplication of the infectious agent.
organ. A specialised structural unit which serves a particular function in a body. Examples of animal organs are kidneys and hearts. Different tissues are organised into organs.
sexual reproduction. A type of reproduction that involves the union of two cells. The offspring from this type of reproduction have a unique combination of genes.
stem cell. An undifferentiated cell which is a precursor to a number of differentiated (specialised) cell types.
therapeutic cloning. Medical and scientific applications of cloning technology that do not result in the production of genetically identical fetuses or babies. For more information see Therapeutic cloning for tissue repair (Australian Academy of Science).
tissue. A group of specialised cells with a common structure and function. Examples of animal tissues include nervous tissue and muscle tissue. Illustrations of different tissue types can be found at Mammalian differentiated cell types, part 1 and Mammalian differentiated cell types, part 2 (Access Excellence, USA).
Page updated January 2004.