Cloning by somatic cell nuclear transfer is a complex procedure that is dependent on correct interactions between oocyte and donor cell genome. These interactions require minimal insult to either the oocyte or the transplanted nucleus. Available data also indicate that reprogramming the donor cell genome may be slow, so that the cloned embryo expresses genes typical of the donor cell, and thus has different characteristics from normal embryos. Procedures that minimize damage to the donor genome and that address the unique characteristics of the cloned construct should enhance the efficacy of the method.