The Importance of Stem Cell Research

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Recommended: Embryonic stem cell research and Christianity

In a society where faster means better and technology has rapidly taken over the lives of people, the means of human health have changed. The advance in medical research has led to the development of using existing cells within the body and placentas of humans to heal critical injuries that usually take years to fully return to normal (Boniello). The cells are commonly referred to as stem cells which can turn into different types of cells depending on the injury, location, and what the body requires. Scientists realize the importance of stem cells and the power they have, “In the beginning, one cell becomes two, and two become four. Being fruitful they multiply into a ball of many cells, a shimmering sphere of human potential” (Weiss). The extraction of these cells, however, stirs much controversy from religious groups. This is because the stem cells that scientist prefer to use to get better results are from human embryos and placentas. Experts in stem cell research may use different methods of acquiring stem cells but all agree that how the world decides the use of embryonic stem cells will say a lot about our character and what will become of the human race (Weiss). Ralph Fariello, Director of Cedar Knolls has this to say, “Researchers can derive 10 times more stem cells by processing a placenta than by simply taking blood from the umbilical cord alone” (Boniello). Although stem cells derived from embryos, placentas, and umbilical cords are very difficult to get, adult stem cells are just as useful. Stem cell research is a leading breakthrough in medical history because it repairs the human body with existent cells, quick recovery time, and can lead to new discoveries. Stem cells start out basic and transform when ... ... middle of paper ... ...ng Placenta a Key to Research." New York Post. NYPOST.com, 2 Jan. 2011. Web. 26 Oct. 2011. Heger, Monica. "#4: Stem Cell Science Takes Off | Stem Cell Research | DISCOVER Magazine." Science and Technology News, Science Articles | Discover Magazine. Discover Magazine, 26 Jan. 2010. Web. 28 Oct. 2011. Longley, Robert. "Recovery Act Funds Expanded Stem Cell Research." U.S. Government Info - Resources. About.com Guide, 4 Nov. 2009. Web. 28 Oct. 2011. Odele, Teresa. "Stem Cell Transplantation." Encyclopedia.com, 2006. Web. 28 Oct. 2011. Saar, Mayrav. "Could Stem Cells Help This Boy See?" New York Post 2 Jan. 2011. Print. Stein, Rob. "Microbes May Play Crucial Role in Human Health, Researchers Discovering." Washington Post. Azcentral.com, 9 Oct. 2011. Web. 26 Oct. 2011. Weiss, Rick. "Power to Divide Stem Cells." National Geographic July 2005. Web. 26 Oct. 2011.

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