Stem cell research has become a political topic in the last few decades. Explain why the research is being done, why some cells are favored for this research over others, and what the factors are that cause some people not to support this type of research. Are any alternatives available that are less opposed?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Stem cell therapy may remedy previously untreatable diseases and conditions such as those involving brain and spinal injury. It has become political because one source of stem cells that are highly desirable for research is those removed from human embryos and fetuses. These cells are less differentiated and therefore more likely to be able to
yield the specific types of mature cells desired. Many people opposed to abortions of human pregnancies are opposed to the use of human embryos and fetuses as a source of stem cells because these embryos and fetuses are destroyed in the process. Use of umbilical cord blood from live births is less opposed, though these cells are somewhat limited in the types of cells they can produce and therefore may not be valuable for treating as large a variety of diseases and injuries.