Stem cells can bring up a heated debate at times, but did you know that there are actually two different forms of stem cells being researched? It’s important to have all of the facts of this subject before forming an opinion, so here are some of the most interesting facts about stem cells that you might not have already known about.
1. Cloning Has Become A Real Possibility Thanks To Stem Cell Research
There are actually two fields of study taking place right now that could make cloning a reality in the near future. One version of cloning focuses on using stem cells for reproductive purposes, such as using adult cellular data to be used in the formation of new stem cells. The other version focuses on the actual cloning of blank stem cells so that they can be used to form new tissues, structures, or even organs.
2. Communities in the United States Can Pass Their Own Laws About Stem Cell Research
The U.S. government may not be funding new stem cell research, especially in regards to embryonic stem cells, but that doesn’t mean that the 50 states and additional territories of the United States are just sitting still. In 2010, Minnesota actually overturned its ban on paying scientists who wanted to engage in the processes and research of human cloning so they could further the science of stem cells.
3. There Isn’t A Complete Ban On The Research of Embryonic Stem Cell Research
Most people are aware of the 2001 laws that outlawed new research funding on embryonic stem cell lines. What most people don’t realize is that any existing stem cell lines that had been created from living embryos could still be researched and have access to taxpayer funding. Many countries have similar policies in place, which has limited the expansion of research into this field, but not completely eliminated it.
4. We’ve Already Benefited From Research That Has Occurred in the Field of Stem Cell Research
One of the primary benefits is the treatment of blood cancers and other bone marrow disorders with bone marrow transplants. These stem cells sometimes cause negative interactions because people are unique creatures and even exact matches don’t always take. In the end, however, more people have been helped by stem cells than hurt by it and the practice has saved numerous lives.
5. There Are More Than Adult and Embryonic Stem Cells That Researchers Are Looking At Today
The umbilical cord blood also has numerous stem cells contained within it that have shown to be very promising to researchers. They have been able to reverse the effects of strokes in certain experiments and are looking at human applications to see if stem cells could be used today in a variety of treatments that could either reduce or cure some long-term diseases.
Stem cells may be the most exciting field of medical research that is happening right now. With over 400,000 embryos in cold storage, just existing without any other purpose or need, there is a lot more research that could be happening right now. By knowing these facts, we can each come to the right decision about the research and use of these cells.