Scientists are excited about the potential benefits stem cell research can bring to victims of stroke, heart attack, and brain diseases like Alzheimer's.
Early stem cell research centered upon aborted fetal tissue, causing a loud cry from pro-life groups. More recently, scientist have found that umbilical cords could be an excellent source of stem cells without the ethical headaches posed by the use of fetal tissue. Dr. Paul R. Sanberg of the University of South Florida has noted that 4 million babies are born in the United States each year, and 99 percent of their cord blood is tossed away. He said one or two cords could probably provide enough stem cells to treat one human stroke victim, if his research proves to be correct.
Another more dubious research project has succeeded in introducing human stem cells into the brains of mice. As the experimental mice matured, the human stem cells became the “master cells” that can develop into any other type of cell, which then grew into a full range of specialized cells throughout each mouse brain. Theoretically, the next step would be to develop a mouse’s brain that has all human cells. Researchers see such mice as perfect specimens for use in laboratories to test treatments for human patients. The bioethical implications of an experiment like this promise to fuel a heated debate.
Related Links:
• Umbilical Cords Could Repair Brains - Yahoo News