Embryonic Stem Cell ResearchEmbryonic stem cell research is one of the most hotly-debated topics in medical research these days. Never before has any field in research aroused so many contrasting emotions in the general public as well as amongst lawmakers. So what is Stem Cell Research? The history of stem cell research is littered with opposition based on ideological and moral grounds by pro-life activists. They argue that medical researchers have no business playing God because 4 day old embryos are destroyed in the process of harvesting stem cells. Their argument makes sense to some people who believe life begins at fertilization. However those people who use scientific rationale seem to think just the opposite. They argue that stem cell research is the future of medical science and holds the key to finding a cure for a number of diseases that plague mankind. In fact early results from stem cell research have shown promise in curing deadly conditions like myocardial infarction and even Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). As far as the law is concerned, stem cell research has received mixed support in the US. The former US President George W Bush vetoed the Stem Cell Enhancement Act of 2005, which received bipartisan support in the US Senate. The new President Barak Obama has indicated he will be more amenable into signing the act. Elsewhere, stem cell research has received positive support. In the UK, use of embryos in stem cell research is possible only after obtaining a license for the same from the Human Fertilisation and Embryo Authority (HFEA). Furthermore this research can only take place using embryos of up to 14 days only. In summary then, while embryonic stem cell research is a controversial area, the general public as well as lawmakers have become more receptive to the idea in recent times after being convinced about the promise of these stem cells in helping understand disease mechanisms as well as finding a cure for them.
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