The Stem Cell Dilemma

Zhaoyuan (Zoe) XiAP Biology

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Stem Cell Basics

• 2 basic types: – Embryonic stem cells– Adult stem cells

• Can divide & renew themselves for a long period of time

• Unspecialized• Differentiate into other cell types• Potential to treat disease/injury

TURNSINTO…

The Dilemma• “The status of the human embryo and human

embryonic stem cell research is a controversial issue as, with the present state of technology, the creation of a human embryonic stem cell line requires the destruction of a human embryo.”

Overview of Controversy

The Opponents• Mainly conservative pro-life

Protestant evangelical and Catholic communities

• Embryos are human• Morally wrong to destroy a

human• Fertilization is the starting

point in life• Alternative?

• Adult stem cells

The Supporters• Majority of Americans• Hold enormous potential

for curing/treatments– Embryonic stem cells have

greater plasticity

• Embryos used for research are left over and would otherwise be thrown away

• Embryos aren’t people