This paper will demonstrate three main points: the description, implementation/research, and morality associated with stem cells. The writing in this document examines the research/history of stem cells, and the alternative methods in which the cells can be extracted. This document will also speak on the moral dilemma associated with the practices of stem cells. Detailed research on the subject will be provided to assist the reader with interpretation and understanding of the information involved. Upon completion, the reader should well educated on the issues surrounding the topic of stem cells.
The discovery of human embryonic stem cells has launched a new age in the battle to cure disease. Throughout history doctors and scientists have worked endlessly to combat illness and disease. In recent years, however, there have been many breakthroughs with disease associated with the implementation of human embryonic stem cells. The use of stem cells has not only aided in survival rate but, also with the quality of life. There is however, a dark side to this innovative discovery and that is the moral aspect of where the stem cells are derived from. The moral issue being discussed is the use of stem cell extraction from the fetus of unborn infants.
In the following review, he classification, implementation/research, and morality associated with stem cells will be discussed. Human embryonic stem cells are amazing disease fighting agents found inside the body. The question is what are stem cells and what do they actually do? According to Kenneth Saline (2012), stem cells “ are undifferentiated cells that are not yet performing any specialized function, but have the potential to differentiate into one or more types of mature functional cells” (p. 172).
So essentially, stem cells are blank cells that have no function, but have the ability to change into different specialized cells for the human body. In addition Kenneth (2012) States, “ there are two types of stem cells: embryonic and adult” (p. 172). The American Association for the Advancement of Science (“ Stem Cell Resources,” 2013) states that, “ Embryonic stem cells are derived from the cells that make up the inner cell mass of the blastoffs” (Para.
15). The American Association for the Advancement of Science (“ Stem Cell Resources,” 2013) also define that, “ Adult stem cells are distinct from cells isolated from embryos or fetus and are found in tissues that have already developed, as in animals or humans after birth” (Para. 17). Most stem cell research is conducted by harvesting the cells from excess embryos at various in-vitro clinics.
According to the American Life League (“ Stem Cell Research,” n. D. ), Whether are a number of different places from which stem cells can be obtained: Bone marrow, Fat cells, Umbilical cord blood, Adult blood, Olfactory nerve endings, Skin cells, and Human embryo” (Para. 2).
Unfortunately the alternative locations for harvesting stem cells lack the vitality needed to make progress in research. These alternative locations for harvesting stem cells really open the doors for continuing research. Stem cells are so important to humans because of their applications in regenerative medicine and potential growth of tissue. Throughout the years of hard work with stem cells, researchers were able to make significant breakthroughs in many degenerative diseases.
According to Lindsay Lyon (2009), “ stem cells might someday cure-? or at least help treat: spinal cord injury, diabetes, heart disease, Parkinson disease, Listener’s disease, Lou Gearing’s disease, lung diseases, arthritis, sickle cell anemia, and organ failure” (p. -2). All of these diseases can be treated by stem cells because the cells can be programmed to the body’s specific needs. Stem cell therapy can slow and even reverse the effects of many diseases. This therapy is vital to patients because it can help with pain and in many cases gives the patient a second chance to live.
Unfortunately, even with the wonderful applications stem cells have to offer here is a moral debate. The debate derives from the fact that stem cells come from unborn or aborted fetus. According to Jessica Reeves (2011 ), the most controversial method, scientists can also pull stem cells from aborted fetus… This is the procedure most often highlighted by pro-life activists who oppose supporting stem cell research” (p.
1). Pro-life activists are against stem cell research because they feel that Women are more inclined to have an abortion if the fetus is going towards research as opposed to destruction. The issue remains constant so as a result researchers are forced to experiment on other species with hopes to continue the search for cures.
