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Scientists Create New Human Embryonic Stem Cell

Posted by Hemos on from the maybe-this-will-work dept.

Homework Help writes "U.S. scientists were successful in creating a new human embryonic stem cell. From source, "U.S. researchers said on Monday they have created a new human embryonic stem cell by fusing an embryonic stem cell to an ordinary skin cell. They hope their method could someday provide a way to create tailor-made medical treatments without having to start from scratch using cloning technology. That would mean generating the valuable cells without using a human egg, and without creating a human embryo, which some people, including President George W. Bush, find objectionable. ""

3 of 713 comments (clear)

  1. And another thing... by imstanny · · Score: 5, Interesting

    I just read an article about this, don't know how close it is to this one, but it was stated that the converted stem cells retain the DNA of the doner. The significance of this is that any organ or body part derived from that stem cell could be safely transplanted into that person without fear of rejection. Nifty.

  2. Re:s/creating/destroying by dr_dank · · Score: 5, Interesting

    However, to ignore any ethical debate on such issues is just as ignorant as some would paint the opposition.

    I understand that most of the embryo's are leftover from fertility treatments and would otherwise be discarded. What moral qualms could be had for experimenting on something that would otherwise go in the trash?

    Why aren't the religious zealots freaking out about the "unborn" being unceremoniously dumped into a biohazard waste bin at the fertility clinic the same way they freak out if they experiment on it, possibly saving lives in the process?

    --
    Where does the school board find them and why do they keep sending them to ME?
  3. Re:Before anyone starts flaming.. by fireduck · · Score: 4, Interesting

    So what is your stance on the destruction of unused embryos at fertility clinics? Why hasn't there been as vocal outcry from Christians regarding that as there has been for stem cells from embryos?