Human embryonic stem cell research: an ethical controversy in the US & Germany.
Stem cells refer to a broad class of cells with potential for prolonged self-renewal and the potential to differentiate. Human embryonic stem (ES) cells are derived from a fertilized human egg, before it has been implanted into a womb. Recently published research has used human embryos, produced by in-vitro fertilization for clinical purposes, to develop lines of pluripotent human ES cells. This review discusses the legal status and ethical implications of ES cell research with special attention paid to the situation in the USA and Germany.
Waite
Lee
L
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Terre Haute, IN 47803, USA.
Nindl
Gabi
G
D033421:Beginning of Human Life; D002454:Cell Differentiation; D002460:Cell Line; D019976:Cloning, Organism / Q000941:ethics; D033041:Embryo Research / Q000941:ethics* / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D015316:Genetic Therapy / Q000941:ethics; D005858:Germany; D033161:Government Regulation; D006801:Humans; D028681:Moral Obligations; D009014:Morals; D011639:Public Opinion; D011640:Public Policy; D013234:Stem Cells / Q000502:physiology*; D014481:United States