Controversies over stem cell research.
Much interest and effort has focused on the therapeutic potential of stem cell technology to treat presently intractable diseases. However, this scientific promise has been accompanied by important issues, including ethical hurdles, political policies and dilemmas concerning cell-source selection (embryonic versus adult stem cells). Although the contribution of stem cells to medical research seems enormous, many countries now face complex ethical and regulatory questions, which could represent a significant limitation to medical progress and could take years to overcome.
Orive
Gorka
G
Laboratory of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Basque Country, Paseo de la Universidad no 7, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
Hernández
Rosa M
RM
Gascón
Alicia R
AR
Igartua
Manoli
M
Pedraz
José Luis
JL
D000328:Adult; D033041:Embryo Research / Q000941:ethics* / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D005060:Europe; D015316:Genetic Therapy / Q000941:ethics / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000379:methods; D033161:Government Regulation; D006801:Humans; D011639:Public Opinion; D011640:Public Policy; D012941:Social Responsibility; D013234:Stem Cells; D014481:United States