Stem Cell Technology:
The Controversies surrounding Stem Cell Research
Introduction
Whether you are in favor of or against certain forms of stem cell research, it
cannot be denied that an immense amount of benefits are gained from the research. The
extent of this research is endless. Scientists are only beginning to explore this
technology. However, no research or medical technology is without controversy.
Most of the debate falls between the embryonic stem (ESC) and germ cells
EGC). When a cell is removed from an embryonic cell, the cell will not be able to
survive. Many opponents of stem cell research view this method as the killing an
innocent life. However, both opponents and proponents agree …show more content…
However, scientists argue that the ASC lack in the ability to have multiple uses. The lack
of source data being provided is another issue. At this time, there is limited information
available of where the tissue has been obtained. Researchers are asking for this
information to become more steadily available.
The last controversial issue involves funding. Supporters and adversaries
disagree on the use of federal funding for any projects involving stem cell research.
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However, both agree that public funding through private sources is acceptable. This
issue has come under many debates both in the medical community and in Congress.
The ESC and EGC debate is best stated by Senator Sam Brownback’s testimony
on stem cell research. “We on this panel, I believe, all in this room, believe that an
embryo is alive. The central question remains, is it a life? Or is it a mere piece of
property to be disposed of as its master chooses?” (Wildmoon)
The Controversies surrounding Stem Cell Research
In stem cell research, there are three sources to obtain stem cells. Another …show more content…
There are less moral and ethical
questions surrounding this research. However, scientists are less enthused about using
these cells. They have shown the adult stem cells lack versatility and many cells to be
used in medical research cannot be found. Further research is being done to develop this
area of stem cell research.
Another concern is amongst researchers. Some researchers are concerned about
their right to know how the stem cell was obtained. Those that are against using stem
cells obtained using certain methods want to be notified the projects they are working on
contains these cells. To many of the researchers, the issue is not the status of the fetus.
However, researchers that oppose using aborted fetuses want the right to choose whether
to continue research on tissues from this source. Researchers also suggest that many
times there is no data from where the stem cells came from.
The last issue of controversy involves federal funding. In August of 2001,
President Bush’s approved federal funding on the existing 60 stem cell lines and
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