From: Brett Paatsch (paatschb@ocean.com.au)
Date: Mon Dec 30 2002 - 04:32:43 MST
> On Mon, 30 Dec 2002, Rafal Smigrodzki wrote:
>
> > You need a gynecological ultrasound machine, the basic equipment of an
> > OB/GYN office, some needles, syringes for collecting the ova, then a
> > cell culture microscope, cell culture equipment (centrifuge,
> > incubator, laminar flow hood, flasks, media, and other disposables)
> > for growing and harvesting the nuclei, a micromanipulator (pneumatic),
> > freezer, all in all, could be a couple hundred thousand $ if new and
> > top of the line, but I am sure you could cobble together a cheaper set
> > from second-hand sources.
>
> Costs could be considerably cut by buying used. (Most of 21CM and CCR
> operated that way). Wonder how many sources of used equipment are now
> watched in wake of 911, since dual use.
>
> What is interesting is that how easy germline gene engineering is with the
> new technique (efficient uptake of DNA fragments by sperm and high rate of
> correct insertion). It takes far less resources and technique than cloning
> (which really isn't that interesting).
>
> With some more resources one could screen for correct insertion, asserting
> that only transformed embryos (what out for teratological changes due to
> insert and the screen itself) would be carried out.
>
> Meaning, some rogue group like Clonaid or similiar could be doing it with
> nobody being the wiser. Of course, I can't think of anything known which
> would result in actual relevant enhancement. Ideas?
I haven't specifically checked the patent databases, but any significant
breakthroughs (baring the very recent) in animal cloning are likely to be
patented and available online. Patents are supposed to provide enough info
for a skilled practitioner (competitors say) to replicate the invention as
part
of the quid pro quo for a limited monopoly. The patent databases online
might increase the chances of Clonaid having enough "how to" info to
improve their chances of "success".
IVF technology and know how, the other side of the technical story, is
actually better understood and characterised for humans than animals. I
suspect the standard IVF clinic would have the necessary equipment.
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