Stem cells are a class of undifferentiated cells that are able to differentiate into

specialized cell types They can be used in stem cell therapy to replace diseased or

malfunctioning cells, with new healthy ones (Stem Cell Research Foundation 23). . There

are two main types of stem cells: human embryonic and adult (somatic) stem cells. Adult

stem cells are found in the tissues of the human body, while embryonic stem cells are

taken from umbilical cords, fetal tissue, and embryos. The use of embryonic stem cells is

very controversial because the fertilized human egg is damaged and killed when the cells

are taken from it. Prolife advocates believe that life begins at conception and a human

being is murdered when an embryo is destroyed, but many of those who oppose the

embryonic stem cell research do not always consider the many discoveries and medical

advances that could be made if research involving theses cells is continued. Until

recently, embryonic stem cell research funding was limited due to a bill expanding the

funding for stem cell research being vetoed by President George W. Bush in the summer

of 2006. In March of 2009, President Barak Obama lifted President George W. Bush’s

restrictions on stem cell research and the funding it receives, as long as the Nation

Institute of Health’s guidelines are constantly followed. All types of stem cell research

should be legalized and receive federal funding because stem cells will eventually lead

scientists to find the cures for diseases, doctors will be able to save more lives as a result,

and sick patients will be able to be cured and live pain-free lives.

The halt in funding for stem cell important stem cell research cost the United

States years of going without cures for a multitude of widespread diseases, disorders, and

disabilities. Thankfully, stem cell research has started back up at a rapid pace after

President Barak Obama overturned the previous restrictions on embryonic stem cell
research funding with the in March of 2010. Although it seems as if many Americans are

against stem cell research, a recent study showed that about fifty-nine percent of

Americans support the loosening of the limitations on stem cell research and funding

(White, par.4).

Currently around one hundred million people in the United States suffer from

diseases that scientists believe will be cured through the use of stem cells soon (White,

par.4). More than 105, 000 people are currently waiting to receive an organ transplant

and stem cell research has the ability to assist them. Scientists believe that in the near

future, they may be able recreate parts of damaged organs or completely new organs with

the implantation of stem cells. Many believe that stem cells have the most potential out of

all possible pathways to find cures.

Cancer, neurological disorders, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), spinal cord

injuries, heart disease, and diabetes are only few of the many diseases and disabilities that

cures, involving stem cells, are being worked on. These unique cells are very versatile

and have the ability to give rise to any type of cell. Unfortunately, the lack of research

regarding the easiest stem cells to obtain, embryonic stem cells, has caused scientists to

fall behind in research. They are also currently trying to improve on identifying desired

types of stem cells in tissues and this process is long and strenuous. Although all of this

work is difficult and lengthy, it will all pay off when thousands of lives are lengthened

and saved through discoveries made with stem cells.

Many people consider themselves prolife advocates because of their support for

stem cell research and therapy. Embryonic stem cells are a better and easier option when

scientist are trying to obtain and use stem cells. Embryonic stem cells are easier to obtain
because there are a lot of them and they can come from a variety of places within the

body. These cells are also more flexible and have a much greater potential for

differentiating correctly. The suffering of people who are currently ill needs to come first

and the use of embryonic stem cells will help them to be cured and live longer, better

lives.

 
 Works Cited Page

Nasso, Christine. Stem Cells. Farmington Hills, MI: Thomson Gale, 2007. 22-40. Print.

Phillips, Theresa. "Pros and Cons of Stem Cell Research." (2009): n. pag. Web. 14 Oct
2010. <http://biotech.about.com/od/bioethics/i/issuestemcells_2.htm>.

"Stem Cell Research." National Institute of Health. 23 Aug. 2010. Web. 1 Oct. 2010.
<http://stemcells.nih.gov>
 

White, Deborah. "Pros and Cons of Embryonic Stem Cells." 1-2. Web. 9 Sept 2010.
<http://usliberals.about.com/od/stemcellresearch>