Researchers have described techniques for getting embryonic stem cells without destroying embryos. Does this end the debate over embryonic stem cell research?
Not any time soon. It is true that teams of scientists have created two new ways to produce embryonic stem cells. Yet, their experiments were done in mice and each method raises practical and ethical issues of its own. Neither is likely to be ready for use in humans for many years. We believe that scientists should keep looking for new ways to create stem cells without destroying embryos. They must not, however, be forced to stop or slow the most proven way to get embryonic stem cells – a way that is supported by a clear majority of Americans. To do that would result in losing critical progress in the fight against diseases and injuries threatening millions of lives. For definitions of the key terms used here, please visit our Glossary. Go to Stem Cell Facts to get more important information about stem cell research.
