Stem cells are immature cells that develop into mature, differentiated cells that make up the adult body. Embryonic cells are especially good sources of stem cells. The early embryo is simply a ball of cells and each of these cells can potentially become any cell in the body – a muscle cell, a nerve cell, or a pancreatic cell, for example. The use of stem cells from aborted embryos or frozen embryos left over from fertility procedures is controversial. Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s are debilitating neurological disorders that people fear. It is possible that one day these disorders could be cured by supplying the patient with new nerve cells in a critical area of the brain.
There are other possible sources of stem cells. These include blood stem cells, neural stem cells in the brain, etc. A possible source of blood stem cells is a baby’s umbilical cord and it is now possible to store umbilical blood for future use. Once researchers have the know-how, it may be possible to use any type of stem cell to cure many of the afflicting human beings.
You Decide:
1. Should researchers have access to embryonic stem cells? Is there any source or just certain sources? Which sources and why?
2. Should an individual have access to stem cells from just his own body? Also from a relative’s body? Also from a child’s umbilical cord? From embryonic cells?
3. Should differentiate cells from whatever source eventually be available for sale to patients who need them? After all, you are now able to buy artificial parts, why not living parts?
