• Question: What are your views on Embryonic Stem Cell Research?

    Asked by sunny to Darren, Deuan, Duncan, Lori-An, Michelle on 17 Jun 2010 in Categories: .
    • Photo: Michelle Hudson-Shore

      Michelle Hudson-Shore answered on 16 Jun 2010:

      I can understand why people have a problem with Embryonic Stem Cells from an ethical point of view. My view used to be that the research should go ahead because it might result in very important findings and for me the stage that the cells were at meant that they were not a person as they wouldn’t be able to survive outside the body. However, thankfully there have now been developments which should mean that Embryonic Stem Cells don’t need to be used. Scientists have discovered a way to produce a type of stem cell called induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells from adult cells The great appeal of iPS cells is that they are derived from adult cells, so the production and killing of embryos, is not necessary.

    • Photo: Darren Nesbeth

      Darren Nesbeth answered on 16 Jun 2010:

      If I get brain or spinal damage I will want some stem cells pronto!

    • Photo: Lori-An Etherington

      Lori-An Etherington answered on 17 Jun 2010:

      This is an interesting question. Embryonic stem cells are made from embryos which are 4-5days old and therefore the main arguement against their use is that theoretically this embyro has the capacity to grow into a human life (if it were in the womb). I am not sure that I would agree that at this extremely early stage of development an embryo is a ‘human life’ and I think that the possibilites that stem cells could help in medicine – such as spinal injuries/ diseases, would be hugely beneficial. Having said this I don’t think I could personaly work in this area of research, but that is up to each individual

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