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In the face of extraordinary advances in the prevention, diagnosis,
and treatment of human diseases, devastating illnesses such as heart disease,
diabetes, cancer, and diseases of the nervous system, such as Parkinson's
Disease and Alzheimer's Disease, continue to deprive people of health,
independence, and well-being. Research in human developmental biology
has led to the discovery of human stem cells (precursor cells that can
give rise to multiple tissue types), including embryonic stem (ES) cells,
embryonic germ (EG) cells, and adult stem cells. Recently, techniques
have been developed for the in vitro culture of stem cells, providing
unprecedented opportunities for studying and understanding human embryology.
As a result, scientists can now carry out experiments aimed at determining
the mechanisms underlying the conversion of a single, undifferentiated
cell, the fertilized egg, into the different cells comprising the organs
and tissues of the human body. Although it is impossible to predict the
outcomes, scientists and the public will gain immense new knowledge in
the biology of human development that will likely hold remarkable potential
for therapies and cures.
Derivation of ES cells from early human embryos, and EG stem cells from
aborted fetal tissues raise ethical, legal, religious, and policy questions
that are the subject of ongoing public debate. As a contribution to that
debate, the American Association for the
Advancement of Science and the Institute for Civil Society, produced
a series of recommendations for conducting stem cell research in an ethical
manner.
AAAS and ICS recognize that there are varied social, political, ethical,
and religious viewpoints to be considered in discussions about the scientific
use of tissue from human embryos and fetuses. Scientists do not presume
to know all the answers and ramifications of basic research in human stem
cells. Therefore, it is important to promote continued dialogue among
all segments of society concerning the implications of human stem cell
research.
The complete report of the AAAS/ICS study is available here
(PDF).
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