Why use human embryonic cells?
Embryonic stem cells are the ultimate master cells of the body, giving rise to all of the tissues and organs.
Why is use of human embryonic stem cells controversial?
This new option is still in research phase, yet has already become controversial politically.
Those in favor of use of human embryonic stem cells say
it involves simple surgery that could one day become as routine as cataract operations.
Those who oppose, and many people do oppose because all said and done it means
destruction of human embryo.
"The New Mantra
If you cannot repair it, replace it, better still regenerate it, is the newest mantra for Surgeons today.
What do the Surgeons say?
Dr Lyndon Da Cruz and Surgeons at Moorfields have already restored the vision of a few patients using cells harvested from their own eyes (Not human embryonic stem cells), which were moved to a new site. But this process , which does not use human embryonic stem cells, is complicated and only a small number of cells can be moved, limiting its use.
Good News
Despite this opposition Britain has encouraged research in stem cells to generate and repair tissues and organs. British Scientists have launched a pioneering project to cure a common form of blindness, on Tuesday, June 5, 007 with the first patients receiving treatment in five years.
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