Stem Cells

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that stem cells intended for use in human applications are harvested from humans, umbilical cords, and embryos, and are so valuable because they are master cells with the capability to produce or "become" any other cell type. The author points out that the reason for the discourse surrounding the topic of stem cells is the fact that the most promising source of stem cells is human fetal tissue; thus, many who hold anti-abortion views find this practice to be highly immoral and repugnant. The paper relates that the problem with umbilical cord stem cells is the small amount that can be harvested from any particular cord; adult stem cells, which pale in comparison to the ability of embryonic cells to differentiate into specialized cells, can be used for research.

From the Paper:

"Of course, most people know the origin of human life begins with the sperm fertilizing the egg. After this, a single cell is created that holds all of the genetic information needed to form the entire human body. This cell divides and redivides over several days until these cells (known as totipotent, or as having "total potential") begin to specialize into the formation known as the "blastocyst," which has a hollow sphere of cells, and a cluster of inner cells (the inner cell mass). While the outer cells of this blastocyst proceed to form the placenta, the cells within the inner cell mass go on to form virtually all of the tissues and organs of the human body. It is these cells that are harvested to research stem cells."

More papers on Stem Cells:

• Analytical Essay # 89513 : "Stem Cells"
• Research Proposal # 125790 : "Embryonic vs. Adult Stem Cells"
• Analytical Essay # 126427 : "The Use of Stem Cells"
• Research Paper # 110050 : "Stem Cells"

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