Final answer:
Cloning genes has several benefits, including providing DNA for gene therapy, mass producing proteins and vaccines, and enhancing agricultural practices through transgenic farm animals.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cloning genes offers multiple benefits, particularly in the fields of medicine and agriculture. Providing DNA for use in gene therapy is a key application, as it introduces functioning genes to replace non-functioning mutant genes, potentially curing heritable diseases. Mass producing useful proteins, such as insulin and human growth hormone, through recombinant DNA technology in bacteria or transgenic animals, has revolutionized the treatment of various medical conditions. Making vaccines is another significant benefit, with recombinant DNA technology enabling the production of vaccines that are more specific, effective, and safer. Lastly, the technology is used in mass producing farm animals that are transgenic, enhancing traits such as disease resistance and improving agricultural yields, though this practice raises ethical considerations.