Reblog 1 Ty Cloyd: Stem Cell Research
In recent years, stem cell research and the controversies surrounding it have been more and more prevalent in our nation, as well as abroad. Recently, with a more liberal government, stem cell research has been slowly but surely receiving more funding and support throughout the country. However, many are still not on board with the idea. During his two terms as President, George Bush cut almost all funding for stem cell research because he felt that the process and what was involved was inhumane. Stem cell research involves the usage of cells from unborn fetuses that have not been specified for a certain use yet, making them available for use for many different cell types.
My article, “the Stem Cell Debate: Is it Over?” published on the University of Utah Health Services website discusses how recent medical advances have made the procedure much more safe, effective and humane. In 2006, scientists discovered a way to stimulate patients cells in a way that causes them to act like embryonic cells, thus removing the need to use unborn fetuses. This has made it much more difficult to argue the ethics of the science, although many still do. For now, some human embryos still need to be used for research purposes, but if all goes to plan these will not be needed in the near future. The stem cell debate is a perfect example of scientists’ wishes to push research further, and the publics reaction to doing so. It raises the question, is potentially hurting or experimenting with/on a person now worth possibly saving many more in the future? It seems that at least in the case of stem cells, the ends will outweigh the means, which is good news for many. Like it or not, stem cells have a strong chance of becoming the newest form of treating diabetes, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease and many more.
http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/stemcells/scissues/