Stem Cell Research
The inner cell mass in a blastocystis pluripotent. Pluripotency means that each one of the cells
is capable of differentiating into any type of cell in the human body
These pluripotent cells can be used to create any cells, tissues, or organs in the body. They can
replace organs without the patients having to worry about organ rejection or taking immune
suppressing medication for the rest of their lives in order to reduce the chance of organ
rejection. The pluripotent cells can also be used to help those with diabetes, spinal cord injury
multiple sclerosis, or cancer, among many other diseases.
There are several different sources of pluripotent cells. The best and most reliable source is the
stem cells from an embryo. There are other types of stem cells such as induced pluripotent cells
and embryonic stem cells created through various processes,
In Canada, unused embryos from an in vitro fertilization procedure may be donated for stem cell
research However, the gamete or embryo donors must explicitly consent to the use to of
gametes or embryos for stem cell research Otherwise, the gametes and embryos collected for
reprbductive purposes need to be discarded.
Should the Canadian policy regarding human pluripotent stem cell research be changed so that
all unused gametes and embryos should be made available for research unless explicitly stated
by the donors?
1 Consider the following perspectives social, cultural, environmental, ethical, and
economic considerations, and state your position (1 mark)
2. Provide at least two supporting arguments (2 marks)