What are the arguments for embryonic stem cell research?
The principal argument for embryonic stem cell research is the potential benefit of using human embryonic cells to examine or treat diseases as opposed to somatic (adult) stem cells.
Why embryonic stem cells should not be used?
There are no ethical or moral concerns with the appropriate use of adult stem cells. However, human embryonic stem cell (HESC) research is unethical since it results in the destruction of human life for research purposes.
Should human embryonic stem cells be used for research?
The use of human embryos for research on embryonic stem (ES) cells is currently high on the ethical and political agenda in many countries. Despite the potential benefit of using human ES cells in the treatment of disease, their use remains controversial because of their derivation from early embryos.
Why are embryonic stem cells controversial?
However, human embryonic stem cell (hESC) research is ethically and politically controversial because it involves the destruction of human embryos. In the United States, the question of when human life begins has been highly controversial and closely linked to debates over abortion.
What are the disadvantages of embryonic stem cells?
What Are the Disadvantages of Stem Cell Research?
- Embryonic stem cells can have high rejection rates.
- Adult stem cells have a determined cell type.
- Obtaining any form of stem cell is a difficult process.
- Stem cell treatments are an unproven commodity.
- Stem cell research is a costly process.
What are some disadvantages of embryonic stem cells?
Table 1
| Stem cell type | Limitations | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Embryonic stem cells | (1) Ethical dilemmas (2) Possible immune rejection after implantation (3) Only a small number of differentiated cardiomyoctes can be generated (4) May lead to teratocarcinomas (5) Genetic instability | Can differentiate into cells of all three germ layers |
What are the ethical issues of embryonic stem cells?