In conclusion, tremendous potential exists for the application of animal biotechnology to the beef industry, especially with the utilization of embryo cloning to produce genetically identical animals and genetic engineering to modify animal genomes to improve and /or create new phenotypes for many economically important traits. Research involving embryo cloning and genetic engineering of animals has been continuous now for over a decade, however inefficiencies in techniques have prevented large scale application. large numbers of identical cattle will some day be produced and producers will be utilizing transgenic cattle in their beef production programs.

• Westhusin, M.E.
• Piedrahita, J.A.