Stem Cell Research is the process in which scientists use human cells in order to create new cells, examples including brain, nerve, liver cells, and some tissues. Stem cell research includes embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells. Although the research can be medically beneficial, I do not agree with stem cell research.
Embryonic stem cells are cells that come from embryos. These cells can be taken from embryos provided either by eggs fertilized in-vitro or stem cells from aborted babies. Personally, I believe that once an egg is fertilized, then you are referring to a human life. I do not feel it is acceptable to use leftover embryos from an in-vitro clinic, and use them towards scientific experimentation and testing. When referring to an embryo as a result of an aborted baby, I am against abortion and absolutely do not agree with this type of procedure.
When referring to the process of retrieving stem cells from an adult, although there are possible benefits that could come from the research, there are also disadvantages. One disadvantage to the research, is that the stem cell from an adult, is considered pre-specialized. Pre-specialized means that that cell can only imitate the tissue it came from. Also, as adults grow older, the stem cells tighten up, weakening their versatility, possibly causing obstacles in the future. Replacement therapy is less conclusive for the adult stem cell research.
In conclusion, I feel that although stem cell research can be beneficial for the future of science, and help minimize diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease, I believe that the risks and procedures that are associated with the research are inappropriate and unnecessary.
References
Augustine, R. (1999-2012
References: Augustine, R. (1999-2012 ). The disadvantages of adult stem cell research. Retrieved from http://www.ehow.com/about_5479305_disadvantages-adult-stem-cell-research.html Malek, B. (2011, 03 28). The ethics of using aborted babies in stem cell research. Retrieved from http://erasetheneed.wordpress.com/2011/03/28/the-ethics-of-using-aborted-babies-in-stem-cell-research/ National Institutes of Health resource for stem cell research. (2009, 04 28). Stem cell basics. Retrieved from http://stemcells.nih.gov/info/basics/basics1.asp