May
can someone explain this article on stem cell research? ?
Scientists discover new, less-controversial stem cell source
- Dragana Kovacevic
[2007/01/08] — Researchers from Wake Forest University School of Medicine and Harvard Medical School say they have reached a breakthrough in stem cell research – a breakthrough that avoids the touchy issue of destroying embryos to obtain the rare cells.
A report released by Anthony Atala – a senior researcher on the project – and his colleagues states that the team of scientists found a new source of much-valued stem cells.
The scientists say they have been able to develop these cells into muscle, bone, fat, and other vital tissue cells.
The team discovered the cells – named amniotic fluid-derived stem (AFS) cells – in amniotic fluid that surrounds the developing embryo, rather than developing the tissue from the more controversial embryonic stem cells.
The advantage of the latest finding is that the cells are readily available – though less easily obtained – in amniotic fluid. Atala speculates that 100,000 specimens of AFS cells could theoretically be enough to supply 99 per cent of the entire U.S. population, providing perfect genetic matches for transplants.
“These cells are capable of extensive self-renewal, a defining property of stem cells. They also can be used to produce a broad range of cells that may be valuable for therapy,” Atala said in a release.
Stem cells are the source of many specialized cell types found in the human body. It is this diverse potential of stem cells that has many scientists searching for alternative and less ethically-controversial ways of harvesting them, hoping to one day have the full capability to replace damaged cells and tissues.
What excatly is stem cell research and why is it so controversial?
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Stem cells are what they sound like: stems from which many specialisations can take place. These cells are young enough to differentiate into many different types of cells. What they will become will depend on the changing environment around them and what signals they are given by the body. Stem cells can be found in sites from the bone marrow to your nose: basically anywhere where cells are, you will find some stem cells.
Okay, so the above story is stating that stem cells can be recovered from the fluid surrounding the embryo.
I personally disagree and support cord blood stem cell research. I disagree as the process itself of extracting amniotic fluid can put the embryo or fetus at risk.