Introduction
Stem cells refer to a group of undifferentiated cells that have the potential to develop or renew into different cell types. These cells come from two main sources, that is, the adult stem cells and embryonic stem cells. On the other hand, stem cell research focuses on scientific developments, scientists are taking to restore, reshape or grow cells. Stem cell research is a topic that generates debate in many places because it involves the use of science on cells. Some people consider this research as morally wrong while others important. This paper will critically evaluate both sides of the controversy. Moreover, it will mention how people benefit from stem cell research. Besides that, it will reflect over the significance of the research projects and finally evaluate the importance of stem cell research on the health of the people.
Main body
As mentioned earlier, stem cell research is a controversial topic that generates a lot of debate. There are many people who consider the practice as morally unacceptable because of the process it involves. Normally, the cells for the research are obtained from the fetus of women who have procured an abortion. Many people consider the process of making changes on a fetus of an aborted child as morally wrong. However, there are people who consider the process acceptable so long as the goal of the researches is to help people on their health. For instance, a paralyzed person does not have the ability to feel anything with their fingers. However, with the developments in stem cell research, their conditions can be restored and thus be able to feel anything with their hands. There is also the possibility that a person who is parlayed and cannot pick up objects with their hands will be able to have the same type of project done in their hands and then grasp objects again. Although the process of obtaining the cells for the research may look unethical, the results of the researches have been very beneficial.
Besides helping restore the sense of touch to many paralyzed people, stem cell research has contributed to the development of new treatment methods. For instance, scientists from Massachusetts hospital reported that were able to develop blood vessels using stem cells from the laboratories. These developments will be used in repairing blood vessels from patients with cardiovascular diseases. Besides that, there is scientific evidence that shows that embryonic stem cells can be used in treating brain diseases like the Alzheimer and Parkinson’s. Researchers suggest that, stem cells replenish damaged tissues and hence restore the specialized brain cells that are responsible for holding muscles. Moreover, there are prospects that one day it healthy heart cells may be developed in the laboratories and hence be used in treating people with heart problems or used in reinforcing the heart with tissues.
It is with no doubt the main goal for institutions to conduct these researches is to come up with modern and effective treatment methods or practices. Several institutions have invested in the stem cell research with not only the goal of developing effective treatment methods but also, coming up with long lasting solutions to critical medical conditions. One such institution is the University of Michigan. This institution has a stellar reputation of being noble and dedicated university of research. The university’s research staff and doctors and nurses at the University of Michigan are also known for their love and caring commitment. Commitment is what it takes with these research projects. The university’s contribution into the stem cell research has enabled it receive global recognition and awards such as the Keck Award. Another university that is well known for its stellar research is John Hopkins University. This university stem cell researches have greatly contributed to the development of modern treatment methods.
Conclusion
It is thus evident that stem cell research is an important initiative that has greatly aided in the development of effective treatment methods. There is evidence that shows the development in the research can help in treating patients with spinal cord injuries, Loug Geghir disease, diabetes and many other diseases. Christopher Reeves the actor from Superman and other films was affected with spinal cord injury when he fell of his horse. Christopher and his wife were strong advocates for stem cell research all the way till his death. Other advocates of the research include actor Michael J Fox though he had the Parkinson’s disease. Although some people consider the process of obtaining the samples for the research unethical, the benefits of the researches supersedes the unethical perceptions. Therefore, the debate that stem cell research is not good is irrational and should thus be avoided. In fact, governments should invest heavily in the scientific researches if they want improvements in the health sector to grow through development of effective and modern treatment methods. Finally, critics of the stem cell research should be enlightened on the benefits of the research.
References
PBS Big Picture Challenge Miracle cell Special Report the Stem Cell Controversy. [Special issue]. (2004). PBS Big Picture Challenge. Retrieved from http://www.pbs.org/wnet/innovation/episode6_essay1.html
Weiss, R. (). The Stem Cell Divide. National Geographic Magazine Online Earth. (Original work published). Retrieved from http://science.nationalgeographic.com/science/health-and-human-body/human-body/stem-cell-divide/#page=1
