by Jaimee Van Niekerk

Created on: November 24, 2010

STEM CELL RESEARCH - PROS AND CONS

Abstract:

People cannot agree on whether stem cell* research is ethical or not. Although it offers many opportunities for the treatment and cure of a wide range of conditions such as physical trauma, relapses, genetic diseases, extensive tissue damage, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, spinal cord injuries and Parkinson’s disease, the underlying question remains as to whether it is ethical to create embryos* specifically for the purpose of using its stem cells to cure others. The purpose of this research project was to investigate all the opportunities and challenges that stem cell research poses. Scientists have been investigating other ways of obtaining stem cells, other than from embryos. These ways include using amniotic fluid, using mouse embryos which do not harm the lives of the mice, using multi-potent adult stem cells from donors and reprogramming human cells. However, more money needs to be given as funding for these purposes, as opposed to embryonic stem cell research, which requires embryos. Money is also an issue regarding stem cell research, because it is costly. Many countries, especially third world countries like South Africa, cannot afford too much research regarding stem cell treatments when we have more pressing matters. However, many first world countries have been debating about funding for stem cell research for many years. It was suggested that private organizations fund the research, not the governments of the various countries. If stem cells are to be used, then our society must agree on ethical guidelines that scientists and doctors need to follow.

Introduction:

A noteworthy fact about stem cells is that they can form into any type of cell. They can be found in embryos, bone marrow and blood from the umbilical cord. If transferred to a body, they can split an infinite number of times to replenish other cells, provided that that body is still alive.

The key question regarding stem cell research is whether we want to create a new life, or whether we want to repair an existing one. Simply put, this is what makes stem cell research such a controversial topic.

Do we have the right to play the role of God by creating embryos at will, so that we are able to heal others from diseases? This is what those against stem cell research argue. However, those in favor of stem cell research argue the fact that many people die from diseases, such as cancer, everyday which could otherwise be cured with the

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