The Great Debate Over Stem Cell Research
Scientists believe stem cells from human embryos could hold the key to treatments and cures for disease. Pro-life
advocates argue using the cells is the equivalent of taking a life, even if it is to save life.
Bringing the cells to light
In scientific terms, stem cells’ rise to fame has been straightforward: Recent studies
suggest these cells may hold the secret to treatment — even cures — for some of our
most baffling diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
An eight-cell embryo 3
days after
insemination
In political terms, however, there is a great debate. Stem cells come from embryos and
according to religious orthodoxy, an embryo is life. But these cells also hold great
promise for millions of ailing patients and their families.
Embryonic stem cells are controversial. They come from the inner cell mass of a
blastocyst, the term for a fertilized egg four days after conception. High-profile
activists, including actor Michael J. Fox, who suffers from Parkinson’s disease, have appeared before
congressional subcommittees urging that research continue.
The scientific debate
Because stem cells are undifferentiated, (they aren’t committed to becoming a liver cell, say, or a blood cell),
scientists may be able to prompt them into becoming whatever type of cell is needed. The cells may also be
able to replace damaged or sick cells in a patient with an injury or degenerative disease.
Where are scientists getting these cells? Until very recently, the vast majority of stem cells used in research
came from discarded (or excess) embryos stored at in-vitro fertilization clinics. If potential parents decide
against having more children, scientists working with stem cells might ask them to consider donating the
unneeded embryos to research.
Science is the search for answers
For pro-life advocates, the moral cost of continuing such research outweighs any potential benefits. For
scientists, however, the possibilities are both awe-inspiring and bewildering. No one denies the moral
dilemma of the stem cell debate. But to turn back now, researchers say, would be tantamount to turning our
backs on a bright, sustaining light because we are terrified of the shadows it creates.
Name: _____________________________
Period: ________________
BIOLOGY The Great Stem Cell Debate Reading
Why we are doing this: to learn about how real scientists do real research and to practice getting
information from text. Also we will learn about the debate surrounding stem cells.
What to do: read the small article, and answer the questions. Use correct, clear, and complete English
sentences.
1.
What is a stem cell? Where do scientists get the embryos they currently use for research?
2.
Why do scientists want to harvest cells before they have differentiated?
3.
What are some examples of debilitating diseases for which stem cell research holds potential answers?
4.
If you were a congressman or congresswomen would you push for more stem cell research? Why or why
not?
5.
Write 3 sentences about your reaction to this article. For example: I found this interesting because I
never knew about this great debate… or I hated this article because I would rather watch t.v. and let my
brain rot than read =)