Which method results in the production of genetically identical organisms?

Cloning is the method that results in the production of genetically identical organisms. This process involves creating a copy of an organism that has the same genetic material as the original. In a typical cloning scenario, such as somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), the nucleus from a somatic cell (an ordinary body cell) of the organism is transferred into an egg cell from which the nucleus has been removed. This egg cell then develops into an organism that is genetically identical to the donor of the somatic cell.

In contrast, fertilization involves the combination of genetic material from two parents, resulting in an offspring with a unique genetic makeup, combining traits from both. Gene therapy focuses on repairing or modifying genes within an individual's cells to treat genetic disorders, and it does not create new organisms. Mutation refers to a change in the DNA sequence of an organism's genome, which can lead to genetic diversity rather than producing genetically identical organisms. Therefore, cloning stands out as the method specifically designed to create exact genetic replicas.