Why Is Embryonic Stem Cell Research Controversial?
Embryonic stem cell research is controversial because it involves the destruction of human embryos. It is also controversial because many people are opposed to its use for medical research. The controversy stems from different opinions about the start of human life and its moral status. Some people feel that human life begins at conception, while others believe that the human life begins only after the embryo develops into a fetus. Some people believe that embryos have a moral status in the same way that a child has. Others believe that embryos have a special interest and have rights. These opinions may differ greatly among people. The most important thing to keep in mind is that embryos have the potential to become human beings.
Many pro-life leaders and Islamic scholars favor stem cell research. They argue that embryonic stem cell research profits from life. Some of these pro-life leaders argue that the destruction of embryos is not a morally acceptable act. They also argue that embryonic stem cell research should be restricted to research that benefits society. The main concern for them is that the destruction of human embryos is unethical.
However, researchers believe that the destruction of embryos is necessary to develop new stem cell lines. They believe that these cells will have a better chance at treating diseases and curing degenerative illnesses. The problem is that the majority of the hESC lines used in research are not truly pluripotent. The lines are either contaminated or not suitable for research. In order to address this, scientists developed an alternative form of embryonic stem cell: induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). These cells can be derived from adult somatic cells. They are a powerful tool for research and disease modeling. This research has the potential to change the way medical researchers understand diseases. Using iPSCs could alleviate some of the ethical concerns related to regenerative medicine.
There are other sources of pluripotent stem cells available, such as amniotic stem cells. But they have less ethical considerations than embryonic stem cells. These cells are derived from the inner cell mass of 5- to 7-d-old blastocysts. These lines are also eligible for NIH funding. However, the National Bioethics Advisory Commission recommended in 1999 that hESC harvested from discarded embryos after in vitro fertility treatments be eligible for federal funding.
Another issue with hESC research is the use of gamete donors. The gamete donors may be against the research if they feel that the use of their DNA will lead to the creation of commercial products or patents. They may also be against the research if they feel that it will result in the creation of chimeras. Chimeras are mythical creatures that have traits of both human and animals. Chimeras are considered to be a threat to human life.
Other concerns with the use of iPS cells involve their ability to divide to become any kind of cell. This ability could result in the growth of cancerous tumors. Also, researchers need to conduct clinical studies to determine the viability of iPS cells. Some researchers argue that iPS cells can be a powerful tool in drug screening. However, it is essential that the researchers conduct the studies in accordance with ethical guidelines. The use of iPS cells also requires proper consent from the donor.
0