Scientists are using embryonic stem cells to try to treat mice with spinal-cord injuries. The problem is that life-destroying embryonic stem-cell research forms tumors. So, the researchers are co-transplanting adult stem cells to deal with the tumor growth.
The irony is adult stem cells are already ahead of embryonic stem cells when it comes to spinal-cord injuries. Researchers have done trials on humans and have seen restored sensation in patients.
Wesley J. Smith, senior fellow at the Discovery Institute, said the public should not forget the core of the debate between ethical adult stem-cell research and embryonic stem-cell research.
"I think in discussing any scientific achievement — whether it's adult stem cells, embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells or otherwise — it's important to understand that the embryonic stem-cell debate is an ethics debate," he said. "It's a fight over morality, not over science."
Contact: Nima Reza
Source: CitizenLink
Publish Date: May 13, 2009
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