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Stem Cell Research Cons

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Stem Cell Research Cons
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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
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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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