ISSUES AND IMPACTS
SOCIAL ISSUES
Our society can be greatly improved and enhanced through stem cell research. Ever since the discovery of the stem cell patch and induced pluritpotent stem cells, a door has been open for studying scientists to cure diseases in a manner that is acceptable to society. From Type 1 Diabetes to Cardiovascular Disease, the stem cell patch can improve and extend the lifespan of many who are afflicted with diseases such as these. (Citation 22)
CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE
For cardiovascular disease, stem cells have the potential can help to repair damaged tissue, such as someone who has had a heart attack and their heart no longer functions the way it had been doing healthfully for years.
HOW ARE RELIGIONS/CULTURES AFFECTED?
Religions such as Catholism, Evangelical Protestant, and Judaism teach that life begins at conception and that abortion should not occur if the woman is not in danger. Other religions, such as Buddhism and Sikh do not have any specific beliefs about when life occurs.
Because religions such as these are so affected by embryonic stem cell research, induced pluripotent stem cells are another option to give those religions comfort and ease, so as to not worry about lives being completely aborted before birth.
(Citation 23)
STEM CELLS WILL HELP CURE DISEASES WORLDWIDE!
The use of stem cells hold endless possibilities, helping to cure a wide range of diseases. Stem cells have the potential to regenerate and repair tissue, thus it is extremely important that stem cell research is funded for. Stem cells aid in saving lives!
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HEART VALVE GROWN FROM STEM CELLS
Researchers utilized embryonic stem cells to regrow heart muscle in rats to help stop progression of heart failure in 2007. The research team used a "pro-survival cocktail" of chemicals and heat to provoke the stem cells to perform. In 100% of the animals experimented upon, grafts resulted, in which the lead researcher told Seattle Times. About 10% of the hearts were prevented from heart failure in the future.
What was so extraordinary about this discovery was that now scientists know that stem cells are able to regrow muscle, especially heart muscle, and further prevent extensive heart failure. This research has given us hope for a positive outlook on the future. Due to research from scientists such as these, there are great improvements in medical care for patients today, such as the stem cell patch recently invented.
(Citation 25)
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