Stem Cell Research One topic or issue that has been and still is considered to be the most controversial not only in the USA but in many other countries across the world is stem cell research. Personally, I have mixed views about stem cell research. Considering the knowledge that I currently have about stem cell research, I can say that I am definitely in support of it. On one hand I can understand the controversy and views associated with those who are opposed to the research and use of stem cells. Many of the anti-stem cell research advocates have more of a major issue with the source of the stem cells rather than the method of research used. Stem cells are found throughout the body and are capable of regeneration and transforming into any one of the body’s numerous cell types. Majority of the stem cells used are from adult tissues and referred to as the adult stem cells, or somatic cells, which are derived mostly from blood, bone marrow, and the skin. The other types of stem cells also being used are the umbilical cord stem cells, amniotic fluid stem cells, and embryonic stem cells. The most versatile and controversial of all the stem cells are the embryonic, which are also believed to be more promising for studying, treating and curing diseases. The controversy associated with embryonic stem cells are the simple fact that they are derived from embryos which were developed and donated for research purposes by a donors who signed consent for the eggs to be fertilized in vitro. Due to the existing amount of cultural and ethical beliefs the views of stem cell research using embryonic stem cells will vary greatly. Many of the more conservative activists will always have objections to any research that involves tampering with human life and I can respect their decision to do so. However, there are different opinions as to when an embryo should be considered a human being. Is it from the time of conception, from the time the brain begins to function, from the time the heart begins to beat, from the gestational age at which they are capable of living outside of the mother’s uterus, or is it from the time of actual birth? With so many ideas it can be confusing for some. Despite the many religious and ethical differences related to stem cell research, I believe that it can be considered to as an ethical, proper initiative as long as we set boundaries especially when it comes to the issue of cloning. In my opinion, there should be a common goal that everyone should have as their priority, which is creating a healthier society not only for others but also for themselves. Some people just need to take the time out and, with an open mind, seriously evaluate all of the benefits and disadvantages of stem cell research. They will then be able to realize how far stem cell research has come, the positive results that have been beneficiary to our society thus far, as well as the many diseases it can potentially treat and cure. Currently there are many mothers choosing to save and store their umbilical cord blood and amniocentesis fluid for their children in case they are in need of a stem cell transplant down the line. Children with leukemia and patients who have undergone chemotherapy are able to use stem cells from the placenta/umbilical cord to restore their blood and immune system. Sickle cell patients are also able to have their red blood cells restored using the stem cells from cord blood. Individuals whose eyes were damages due to caustic chemicals have had their vision restored using the stem cells taking from their healthy eye. It was stated in our text how doctors from Germany were reporting that 191 patients who were diagnosed with hear disease and treated with their own bone marrow from adult stem cells had no side effects, a decrease in death and a significant improvement in heart function. If we allow for the continued research, and testing with stem cells the amount of disease that we are able to teat and cure will grow greatly. There is testing occurring on patients who have had recent spinal cord injuries with the intent of restoring its function with the injection of cells directly at the site of injury. Some of the other major disease that are affecting the world in large numbers and potentially be able to develop a treatment or cure in the attempt of improving the quality of life worldwide can include the following: diabetes, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, cancer, multiple sclerosis, blindness and even HIV/ AIDS. I would definitely say that all of the benefits outweigh any moral dilemmas that may arise. I don’t have hardly any concerns that trouble me regarding stem cell research. The only thing associated with stem cell research that alarms me is the issue of cloning. I think that it is a wonderful thing when they are just using it to produce synthetic organs for the treatment of patients. Currently, synthetic skin has been developed and used to save many lives. The idea of a semi-synthetic pancreas would save millions of lives alone considering the amount of insulin-dependent diabetics in the world. One of the major benefits cloning could bring to society as a whole is the amount of organs that can be developed and used for patients in need of organ transplants. There is an existing shortage in the amount of organ donors compared to the high demand of those in need. The thing that troubles me is the possibility of people abusing the cloning therapy for any other reasons other than those associated with the improving the quality of health among individuals. I agree with what was mentioned about how human cloning could affect the protection of human life and dignity being at stake. If human cloning were to exist, who is to say that a person won’t be harmed and replaced by a clone? I know that it may sound a bit crazy, but I think that if they are capable of cloning animals, the possibility of cloning humans is highly likely and if in the wrong hands could be a safety issue to many. Other than that one glitch, I would say that for the most part, I am in favor of stem cell research because I believe that it’s possible benefits would impact the health care of millions is such a tremendous way. Another way that spectators and those who have doubts about stem cell research should approach this issue is on a more personal level. Devastating diseases like HIV/AIDS are rapidly infecting more and more people each day in the world. With the possibility of stems cell research leading to a cure for this death sentence of a disease, why wouldn’t we embrace these scientific advances to save these lives instead of leaving them to suffer? Society must realize that disease has no ethical, religious, or political boundaries. If individuals don’t care about saving other lives, what would they be willing to do in order to save their own life?