15 May 2002
Embryonic stem cell research: the relevance of ethics in the progress of science.
Miguel Ruiz-CanelaMed Sci Monit 2002; 8(5): SR21-26 :: ID: 420827
Abstract
Experimentation with embryonic stem (ES) cells has become an importantbreakthrough in medical research. However, it is also a source of controversy, because it requires thedestruction of the human embryos used to derive ES cells. This paper deals with some of the ethical issuesconcerning ES cell research. To begin with, the terms used in the debate on the ethical status of thehuman embryo need to be defined. Apart from the presumed benefits of ES cell research, we should alsoconsider such issues as the strong opposition to this research by a large part of society, who arguein favour of protecting and respecting human embryos; the fragility and defenseless of human embryos;and the contradiction in terms inherent in the statement that human embryos must be treated with respect.Secondly, we should focus on possible conflicts between the financial, scientific, and ethical aspectsof this debate. Thirdly, the significance of social and political debate requires clear and completeinformation that takes all consequences into account. Finally, the paper suggests how multipotent adultstem cell research may be an optimal and realistic alternative to ES cell research.
Keywords: Bioethics, Cloning, Organism, Embryo, Ethical Theory, Ethics, Medical, Europe, Morals, Public Policy, Research, Research Support, Stem Cell Transplantation, United States
Editorial
01 April 2024 : Editorial
Editorial: Forty Years of Waiting for Prevention and Cure of HIV Infection – Ongoing Challenges and Hopes for Vaccine Development and Overcoming Antiretroviral Drug ResistanceDOI: 10.12659/MSM.944600
Med Sci Monit 2024; 30:e944600
In Press
08 Mar 2024 : Clinical Research
Evaluation of Foot Structure in Preschool Children Based on Body MassMed Sci Monit In Press; DOI: 10.12659/MSM.943765
15 Apr 2024 : Laboratory Research
The Role of Copper-Induced M2 Macrophage Polarization in Protecting Cartilage Matrix in OsteoarthritisMed Sci Monit In Press; DOI: 10.12659/MSM.943738
07 Mar 2024 : Clinical Research
Knowledge of and Attitudes Toward Clinical Trials: A Questionnaire-Based Study of 179 Male Third- and Fourt...Med Sci Monit In Press; DOI: 10.12659/MSM.943468
08 Mar 2024 : Animal Research
Modification of Experimental Model of Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) in Rat Pups by Single Exposure to Hyp...Med Sci Monit In Press; DOI: 10.12659/MSM.943443
Most Viewed Current Articles
17 Jan 2024 : Review article
Vaccination Guidelines for Pregnant Women: Addressing COVID-19 and the Omicron VariantDOI :10.12659/MSM.942799
Med Sci Monit 2024; 30:e942799
14 Dec 2022 : Clinical Research
Prevalence and Variability of Allergen-Specific Immunoglobulin E in Patients with Elevated Tryptase LevelsDOI :10.12659/MSM.937990
Med Sci Monit 2022; 28:e937990
16 May 2023 : Clinical Research
Electrophysiological Testing for an Auditory Processing Disorder and Reading Performance in 54 School Stude...DOI :10.12659/MSM.940387
Med Sci Monit 2023; 29:e940387
01 Jan 2022 : Editorial
Editorial: Current Status of Oral Antiviral Drug Treatments for SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Non-Hospitalized Pa...DOI :10.12659/MSM.935952
Med Sci Monit 2022; 28:e935952