What is the growing controversy over stem cell research?

Opponents argue that the research is unethical, because deriving the stem cells destroys the blastocyst, an unimplanted human embryo at the sixth to eighth day of development. As Bush declared when he vetoed last year’s stem cell bill, the federal government should not support “the taking of innocent human life.”

What is the major problem with the application stem cell therapies?

Pluripotent stem cells have capacity to form teratomas in immunocompromised animals. A major problem is improper distribution and localization of stem cell after transplant. Therefore the ability to monitor cell distribution into the host after administration is necessary.

What ethical issues surround stem cell research?

Other important ethical issues relate to informed consent of both donors of gametes and embryos as well as recipients of stem cells and stem cell products. Further, there has been some concern related to the commercialization of the process, justice, and the responsible conduct of research.

Who blocked stem cell research?

In 2001, President George W. Bush restricted federal funding for research on stem cells obtained from human embryos because the technology required the destruction of human life.

What religions are against embryonic stem cell research?

The Catholic Church has become the leading voice against any form of human cloning and even against the creation of human embryonic stem-cell lines from ‘excess’ in vitro fertilization (IVF) embryos.

Why is stem cell research so important?

Given their unique regenerative abilities, stem cells offer new potentials for treating diseases such as diabetes, and heart disease. Research on stem cells continues to advance knowledge about how an organism develops from a single cell and how healthy cells replace damaged cells in adult organisms.

Is stem cell research legal?

Stem cell research is legal in the United States, however, there are restrictions on its funding and use. A number of states restrict research on aborted fetuses or embryos, but in some cases, research may be permitted with consent of the patient.

When was stem cell research banned in the US?

On August 9, 2001, U.S. President George W. Bush introduced a ban on federal funding for research on newly created human embryonic stem (ES) cell lines. The policy was intended as a compromise and specified that research on lines created prior to that date would still be eligible for funding.

Is stem cell research banned?

Who opposed stem cells?

Some opponents of stem cell research argue that it offends human dignity or harms or destroys human life. Proponents argue that easing suffering and disease promotes human dignity and happiness, and that destroying a blastocyst is not the same as taking a human life.

Is Buddhism for or against stem cell research?

Some Buddhists argue that embryonic stem cell research is in accordance with the Buddhist tenet of seeking knowledge and ending human suffering, while others argue that it is a violation of the notion of not harming others. A central belief of Hinduism and Buddhism is that an individual’s soul or self is eternal.