What is the process of cloning primarily associated with?

The process of cloning is primarily associated with reproduction using only the somatic cell. Cloning involves creating a genetically identical copy of an organism through the use of somatic cells, which are any cells that are not reproductive (or germ) cells. This method bypasses the typical process of sexual reproduction, where gametes (sperm and egg) come together to form a zygote that develops into an organism.

In cloning, the DNA from a somatic cell is often inserted into an enucleated egg cell, which means the nucleus of the egg cell has been removed. This allows the somatic cell's DNA to dictate the development of the embryo, resulting in a genetically clone of the original organism. This process has been famously depicted by the cloning of Dolly the sheep, the first mammal cloned from an adult somatic cell, illustrating the feasibility of this technology.

The other options relate to different biological processes. The formation of gametes refers to meiosis and sexual reproduction, while the development of zygotes concerns the early stages of embryonic development following fertilization. The formation of brain cells involves neurogenesis, which is a completely separate biological phenomenon. Understanding cloning through the lens of somatic cells provides insight into advancements in genetic research