In an agricultural biotechnology trial, scientists investigated the survival and development rate of cloned transgenic goat embryos transferred into surrogate female goats (does).
A total of 1280 cloned embryos were surgically transferred into surrogate hosts, resulting in 340 confirmed pregnancies. Out of these pregnancies, 48 healthy live kids were successfully born.
Calculate the percentage of transferred cloned embryos that successfully developed into live newborn kids. Show your working.
The successful development of a cloned mammalian embryo into a healthy fetus relies on the formation of a functional placenta.
State the name of the specific organ in the surrogate's reproductive system where the placenta attaches and develops.
Explain how the microscopic structure of the placenta is adapted to facilitate the efficient exchange of substances between the surrogate mother and the developing fetus.
Immediately after birth, the cloned goat kids feed on colostrum, followed by mature milk from the surrogate mother. Suggest how specific nutritional and immunological components of this milk contribute to the survival and physical development of the newborn kids.
