The role of the preimplantation geneticist in human cloning

If human cloning is to become a reality, the preimplantation geneticist mus t be responsible for determining the indications for undertaking cloning an d for establishing the risks and benefits of human cloning. The unresolved issue is whether a compelling argument can be made for cloning a human for therapeutic reasons while outweighing legal, moral and ethical objections. At present, 'whole person' cloning does not seem justified under any circum stance, whereas cloning for the replacement of diseased cells, tissues or o rgan systems, i.e. 'spare parts', seems to be a likely, acceptable applicat ion of cloning strategies for humans. Copyright (C) 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.