Dr. Germ: stem cell research

Most of the cells in the body are able to regenerate, and constantly promote growth in the body. With the exception of neurons in the brain, cells are constantly being produced and specialize in functions of the body in order to help sustain a person’s life. 

Stem cells are the source in which specialized cells originate from. These cells can be obtained from bone marrow, blood, and even from embryos. In terms of embryonic stem cells, debate centers around the question of whether or not it is ethical to obtain cells from embryos. While some believe that embryos are a source of cells, others believe embryos to be people, and argue that embryos contain a human soul, and should not be a source to harvest cells. 

Embryonic stem cells are harvested due to their plasticity, and viability in which they can be used in more versatile ways than adult stem cells. These cells can then be used to further clinical research regarding pathology, genetics, and the human body. 

Stem cells offer insight into the possibilities of regenerative medicine, helping heal tissue in those who have lost tissue to disease, in understanding how diseases can affect and harm the body, and even in testing new drugs or medicinal therapies on the body. 

These stem cells can also be frozen and stored for use of the donor in the future. If someone loses tissue in the future, or develops an under-researched condition; their stored stem cells can be utilized for their treatment or to further the research of their condition in hopes of finding a cure or method of alleviation of symptoms. 

Stem cells, a vital source for the progression of research should be able to be obtained and tested strictly through patient consent. Whether obtained embryonically, or by extraction from adults, from procurement to experimentation, the patient should consent to all steps and their usage, as those cells would be used in their betterment.