US Scientists say they have successfully cloned a clone of a large animal, which could have a great impact on the animal breeding industry in the future. 

Dr. Yang Xiangzhong at the University of Connecticut has confirmed two live births of second generation clones of a popular Japanese breeding bull.

The second generation cloned bulls were born separately in January and March 2000.

Although one of the two calves died of anaemia and infection shortly after birth, the second has survived the last four years in apparent good health.

The technique, known as serial somatic cell cloning, was initially reported in mice in 1998, but attempts to clone a clone have since failed.

(CRI May 24, 2004)