Stem Cell Research Ethical dilemmas

Stem Cell Research Ethical dilemmas

Introduction

Embryonic stem cells offer hope of new therapies, but their use has been hotly debated. Different countries have chosen to regulate the use of embryonic stem cells in very different ways. The topic of embryonic stem cell divides even today the public and the researcher as there are certain ethical issues that are still difficult to be solved (Amaro, 2006).The decade of embryonic stem cell research has led to a broad consensus on the need to protect the interests and autonomy of donors of gametes and embryos (Soren, 2006). It is argued that it is essential to maintain the safety and efficacy in the treatment and justify the risks to research subjects; these interventions should be safe, effective and conveniently prescribed trials should be designed to provide reliable information; this means some form of randomized trial.

Discussion

The American Society of Neurology proclaimed the need to establish committees to review studies that involve the transfer of human embryonic stem cells in fetuses of primates and other mammals, as there is the fear that animals can acquire human mental abilities. Additional risks are mentioned that the longer the cells to grow in culture acquire genetic and epigenetic changes, so there is a need of systematic assurance of the integrity and potential of cellular products, given the risk of transmitting a genetic disease own donor (Canela, 2002). Goals should be resolved in the clinical setting, as the site where the cells are injected, the quantity and purity, the role to be played, and the effectiveness of alternative treatments exist for this disease.

There is also the difficulty that people with more economic means can access these experimental treatments before the others, by having greater access to information. There is also the disadvantage of those who refuse to receive embryonic stem cell treatments that are employed or minors or disabled persons under their guardianship (in these cases, the best interests of these patients have priority. Moreover, there is health staff refuses to participate in the aforementioned treatments involving cells or derivatives thereof (Manzar, et al. 2011). One issue is informed consent; ensure that the patient understands the risks include sensitivity to cellular products (immune reactions), generating tumors need treatment with inmunosupresores and unknown long-term effects. This makes it necessary for expert advice in the review of the scientific and ethical aspects of clinical trial design.

Researchers consider the early embryo in biological rather than ethical point. They like to point out that the embryo at this stage has no nerve cells - so no consciousness. According to the ethical doctrine of utilitarianism everyone should seek to perform in the great happiness of other people. Those who favor the stem cell research argue that its advantages surpass the personal, social and economic sacrifices and if embryos are meant to be destroyed then why not in this way which will eventually benefit the humanity. It is also argued that abortion is already legal in many countries which ...