New findings fuel stem cell research debate

Recent news from two independent studies has thrust the debate of stem cell research to the forefront. Hopes are high that the new process, which is in early testing stages on mice, will be able to create embryonic stem cells without destroying an embryo.

Two Massachusetts-based groups claim they have removed stem cells from an embryo without doing any harm to the embryo whatsoever.

Should this process be found continually successful, there is no reason to deny the research adequate funding.

Many claim the cures of many diseases and ailments lay within the augmentable stem cell. Stem cells from young embryos can be manipulated into 220 kinds of cells in our bodies including heart, muscle and brain cells.

If the advancement of stem cell research moves forward due to these new tests, the possibility remains that a disease such as diabetes or Parkinson’s could one day have a cure.

Celebrities, such as the late Christopher Reeve and Michael J. Fox, fought and continue to fight for the advancement of the research.

According to the National Institute of Health, stem cells have been used in some medical cases, such as bone marrow transplants, with success over the past 40 years.

The biggest hurdle blocking stem cell research up to this point has been pro-life supporters who claim that “harvesting” stem cells from embryos is the equivalent of murder.

This hurdle may provide the downfall to the research. In order to investigate these findings, extensive research will have to be done on embryos. In this case, many embryos will likely be destroyed or lost in the process. Those against stem cell research may claim these findings are just a ruse to further the research without care of life.

Those against stem cell research claim that one life should not be destroyed to save another.

Massachusetts seems to be the hot ground for the topic and the state most interested in exploring stem cell research. An article published in March in The Boston Globe showed that many bishops in the Boston area began an advertising campaign to stop legislation supporting stem cell research in the state.

Ironically, the state of Massachusetts may have the last laugh if it is proven that stem cell research can continue without the harm of embryos.