Scientists from the Taiwan Livestock Research Institute and agricultural industry experts are working in conjunction with US research organisations to produce cloning solutions for Taiwan’s agriculture. The work has already resulted in the birth of four dairy cows cloned from the cells of a high-yield dairy cow in Taiwan. The cells were used to produce embryos and were implanted in other cows which carried them through to birth.
Teng-kuei Cheng, a professor at the National Taiwan University who is heading the project, says “We’re trying to use this technique to extend our herd of god quality dairy cows in Taiwan.” Animals obtained through cloning are expected to produce 6,500 kilograms of milk each year, making it an economically viable investment.
The Institute has also developed alpine goats capable of providing high milk yields, perfect for making cheese. Other applications currently being researched include the creation of bi-reactors for medical use. Professor Cheng says that despite controversy surrounding cloning, scientists have a duty to educate the masses about their work.
