Controversy surrounding stem cell research

There exists a widespread controversy over stem cell research that emanates from the techniques used in the creation and usage of stem cells. Human embryonic stem cell research is particularly controversial because, with the present state of technology, starting a stem cell line requires the destruction of a human embryo and/or therapeutic cloning. However, recently, it has been shown that embryonic stem cell lines can be generated without destroying embryos using a single-cell biopsy method similar to preimplantation genetic diagnosis.

Opponents of the research argue that this practice is a slippery slope to reproductive cloning and tantamount to the instrumentalization of a human being. Contrarily, some medical researchers in the field argue that it is necessary to pursue embryonic stem cell research because the resultant technologies could have significant medical potential, and that excess embryos created for invitro fertilisation could be donated with consent and used for the research.

This in turn, conflicts with opponents in the pro-life movement, who argue that a human embryo is a human life and is therefore entitled to protection. The ensuing debate has prompted authorities around the world to seek regulatory frameworks and highlighted the fact that stem cell research represents a social and ethical challenge.


President Bush, twice in his tenure, vetoed the passage acts that would have eased restraints on federally funded embryonic stem cell research.