Q. How are scientists hoping to overcome the ethical objections to using embryonic stem cells in their research?
Scientists have found a way to make human embryonic stem cells without destroying embryos, a breakthrough that could overcome intense ethical objections to the research. Embryonic stem cells are widely tipped to usher in a new age of medicine because they can grow into any tissue in the body.
Q. Is embryonic stem cells ethical?
There are no ethical or moral concerns with the appropriate use of adult stem cells. However, human embryonic stem cell (HESC) research is unethical since it results in the destruction of human life for research purposes.
Q. What are scientists hoping to do with stem cells?
Cell therapies would use stem cells, or cells grown from stem cells, to replace or rejuvenate damaged tissue. Scientists also want to use stem cells to understand disease and find drugs that might treat it. Embryonic stem cells could be used to make more specialized tissues that have been lost to disease and injury.
Q. Why is there controversy surrounding the use of stem cells?
Ethical issues Many people disagree with using human embryonic cells for medical research because extracting the stem means destroying the embryo. This creates complex issues , as people have different beliefs about what constitutes the start of human life.
Q. What are the five different types of stem cells?
5 Types of Stem Cells by Differentiation Potential
- Totipotent (or Omnipotent) Stem Cells.
- Pluripotent Stem Cells.
- Multipotent Stem Cells.
- Oligopotent Stem Cells.
- Unipotent Stem Cells.
Q. Why do scientists want to use stem cell lines?
Scientists want to have a variety of stem cell lines so that they can pick the best ones for their experiments. Some lines are better suited for becoming pancreatic cells, others for neurons (no one is sure why). Moreover, older cell lines are harder to grow, and many contain mutations and chromosomal abnormalities.
Q. How effective is stem cell therapy?
Currently, very few stem cell treatments have been proven safe and effective. The list of diseases for which stem cell treatments have been shown to be beneficial is still very short.
Q. How successful is stem cell treatment for knees?
Studies have shown that stem cell therapy can help reduce knee pain and improve function, but it does not appear to result in cartilage regrowth. Stem cell treatment for joint injuries is not yet part of medical practice.
Q. How much is stem cell treatment for knees?
How Much Does Stem Cell Therapy Cost?
| Knee Replacement Surgery | Stem Cell Therapy | |
|---|---|---|
| Out of Work | 4-8 weeks, depends on job | N/A |
| Expected Time for Recovery | 3 months | see results in 8 weeks |
| Out-of-pocket cost | Depends on insurance coverage, Up to $5000-$10,000 | $3000 to $6000 |
