Glossary
- Cloning
The use of a single somatic (non-reproductive) cell from an individual to produce another genetically identical individual.
See also: Nuclear Transfer, Somatic Cell.
- Cryopreservation
Preservation by subjection to extremely low temperatures.
- Culture
The process or technique of making body tissue or embryos grow in a culture medium outside the organism.
- DNA
Deoxyribonucleic acid is a nucleic acid that carries the genetic information in the cell and is capable of self-replication. DNA consists of two long chains of nucleotides twisted into a double helix and joined by hydrogen bonds. The sequence of nucleotides determines individual hereditary characteristics.
- DNA microarray
A supporting material (such as a glass or plastic slide) onto which numerous fragments of DNA are attached in a regular pattern for use in genetic analysis.
- Donor animal
The animal whose DNA is used to produce a clone. Also called Genetic Donor.
- Embryo transfer
Implantation of an embryo into the oviduct or uterus of a recipient female animal.
- Epigenetic
Relating to, being, or involving changes in gene function that do not involve changes in DNA sequence. Epigenesis is the development of an animal from an egg through a series of processes in which unorganized cell masses differentiate into organs and organ systems.
See also: Gene Function.
- Gene
A gene is the basic unit of heredity. It’s a short piece of DNA—specifically, a sequence of nucleotides—that tells the body how to build a particular protein. The combination of all genes makes up the blueprint for an animal’s body and its functions.
- Gene Banking
The cryopreservation of DNA for possible later use in cloning; this can be accomplished using a small biopsy sample provided by the client or the client’s veterinarian.
See also: Cryopreservation.