Embryonic Stem Cell Technology

Embryonic Stem Cell Technology

  • Submitted By: kaur1raj
  • Date Submitted: 11/29/2008 9:52 AM
  • Category: Technology
  • Words: 1510
  • Page: 7
  • Views: 1

Research Paper 22 November 2008 Embryonic Stem Cell Technology Embryonic stem cell research) is one of the most promising, fascinating, and not to mention, controversial issue in science today. It has generated debate, protest, and most importantly, hope. Scientists have discovered that stem cells hold huge potential to treat countless diseases such as) Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, arthritis, diabetes), and spinal cord damage). How does this all work? The answer lies in the miraculous embryonic stem cells. They are basically unspecialized cells that can be manipulated into any of the 220 types of human cells known Stem Cells. This discovery may help treat numerous patients diagnosed with fatal {draw:frame} diseases in the future). Also, these cells can help test experimental {draw:frame} drugs, help doctors understand birth defects), and provide essential clues about how the tissues of the body develop and how they take hold (Stem Cells). Now, why the controversy? Embryonic stem cells are obtained from embryos and once they are obtained, the embryos are destroyed. Some people believe that embryos have the potential to go on to become a fully fledged human, so it is therefore morally wrong to destroy them. However, biologically speaking, these blastocysts (stage of development) of an embryo), are far from being considered a human being. They do not possess organs of any sort; thus, they do not have feelings and are not considered as an individual. Although they can be manipulated to develop into specialized cells, at most, they can become an organ, not a complete living person. The fact that these cells hold such promise in saving millions of lives is reason enough to continue researching them. Therefore, research on Embryonic Stem Cells should be continued and legalized. On October 19, 2005, an international stem cell bank) has been opened in Seoul, South Korea. This project, which is being guided by Dr. Woo Suk Hwang, will produce embryonic stem cells for...

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