The Stem Cell Debate: What Does It All Mean?

There is much debate about stem cell research. Pro life groups argue that life begins when sperm meets egg. Thus, stem cell research destroys a human life. Other opponents argue that stem cell research is opening the door to reproductive cloning. Proponents argue the value of stem cell research in cures or treatments for various diseases such as: Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, mitochondrial disease, cancer, etc… Stem cell research appears to be the newest line drawn between political parties. Currently there is an executive order which restricts federally funding of stem cell research on embryonic stem cells to the already derived cell lines. However, there is federal funding for embryonic stem cell research on the already existing lines of adult and animal stem cells.

In order to know which side of the argument to be on, you first must understand what stem cells are, what stem cell research includes, and where you draw the line when it comes to science vs. humanity. I hope this helps!

What are stem cells?

Everything in the human body is comprised of cells and there are over 200 cell types. There are specialized cells, i.e.: muscle cells, nerve cells, brain cells, skin cells, liver cells, on and on…. Then there are stem cells. Stem cells are like the bodies master cell and building blocks for other cells in that stem cells are unspecified (not designated to any body part) and have the capability of dividing into specialized cells. In lay mans terms, stem cells can serve as a sort of repair system for the body by dividing themselves to replenish other cells that normally can not replicate or replenish themselves. This process is called differentiation. So, to be clear, there are stem cells that are unspecified and specialized cells that are “assigned” to a specific body part.

There are two main categories of stem cells: embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells.Embryonic stem cells are those found in the blastocyst. A blastocyst is the structure formed on day four or five of the embryogenesis -(embryo formation.) Adult stem cells are those found in the adult tissues. There are also adult stem cells in umbilical cord blood, placenta, amniotic fluid, and children.

What is the difference between adult stem cells and embryonic stem cells?

The adult is not destroyed when the adult stem cells are collected. The embryo is destroyed when collecting the embryonic stem cells. However, adult stem cells typically only generate the cell types of the tissue in which they reside. In other words, adult kidney stem cells wouldn’t generate heart stem cells. Although, recent studies into plasticity of adult stem cells may show evidence it is possible for one tissues stem cells to replicate other tissues stem cells. Adult stem cells are rare in mature tissue and scientist have not discovered a way of multiplying them. Whereas, embryonic stem cells can be readily created using cell culture in a lab. The adult vs. embryonic cell numbers is a key issue argued for furthering embryonic stem cell research. It takes a large number of cells for cell replacement therapy (discussed bellow.)