Stem cell research Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

Stem cell research - Term Paper Example Stem cell research is divided in to embryonic stem cells, cord blood stem cells and adult stem cell research (Freedman, 2007). The adult stem cells are taken from the bone marrow, brain and spinal cord while cord blood stem cells are taken from newborn’s umbilical cord. The third is the most controversial embryonic stem cells that are taken from the embryo and thus leading to the death of the embryo since the embryo comprises mainly stem cells (Forman, 2008)). Accordingly, totipotent stem cells can differentiate in any form of cell while unipotent stem cells have unlimited reproductive capabilities and can only differentiate in to single type of tissue or cell (Freedman, 2007). In this paper, I will argue that stem cell research is essential research since its findings lead to medical advancements that can be used to cure complex diseases and disorders thus improving the overall quality of life in the society. Proponents of stem cell research assert that it has demonstrated the capability of regenerating all body areas and repairing damaged body tissues thus curing degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and cancer related complications (Freedman, 2007). In addition, the field of study is holds key to reversing the negative impacts of ageing process thus it is critical in prolonging life and ensuring high standards of living among populations (Forman, 2008). The proponents counter the argument that stem cell research leads destroying innocent young life by claiming that the embryo does not have the psychological, emotional and physical properties associated with human beings before it is implanted in to the uterus. It is follows that the embryo lacks the criteria for personhood and thus has not any interests that should be protected and is why it should be used for the future benefit of those who meet the personhood criteria (Freedman, 2007). Accordingly, some biological