T
he Bible declares that we humans are “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139.14). Clearly, the human body is the most complex and unique organism God created.
Fundamental to our complexity are stem cells, of which there are two kinds. The first being embryonic stem cells, which develop shortly after fertilization and are the creation of a new person. The second type adult, or somatic stem cells, are present throughout all the tissues and organs of our bodies.
Because of the misunderstanding over using some stem cells for research to treat diseases, it’s important for pro-life supporters to understand the differences in these amazing cells.
Embryonic
Embryonic stem cells are the critical cells which develop shortly after fertilization. God uses them to grow a blastocyst no bigger than a tiny mass of 200 cells which is a complete person. They are called “pluripotent” because they can regenerate themselves and all the tissues and organs in the body.
The problem with using embryonic stem cells for research involves how scientists get them.
Most embryonic stem cells are obtained from embryos (pre-born children) created in a laboratory. The process involves destroying the embryo – killing the child. These are pre-born children not implanted during an in vitro fertilization cycle which far too often creates more embryos than needed.
This tragedy is perpetuated by the lie that embryonic stem cells are the “gold standard” for treating a host of illnesses, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
To date, there is no peer-reviewed, published article reporting success using embryonic stem cells to treat any disease.
Adding to the evil of dishonoring the personhood of pre-born children is the fact that the federal government continues to fund the barbaric practice of embryonic stem cell research.
Adult Stem Cells
Adult stem cells (also called non-embryonic stem cells) are found in various tissues throughout the body, including the brain, bone marrow, skin, fat, and muscle. They are also present in placentas and umbilical cords.
Adult stem cells supply new cells as we grow into adulthood and replace damaged cells later in life.
Unlike embryonic stem cells, adult cells are ethically obtained without harm to the person. Most importantly, they have a proven record of successfully treating an estimated two million people around the world suffering with more than 70 illnesses or conditions.
Those conditions include: multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, heart damage, spinal cord injury, juvenile diabetes, macular degeneration, and systemic lupus.
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs) are stem cells that scientists have made in the laboratory. They take normal adult cells, such as skin or blood cells, and reprogram them to become like embryonic stem cells.
Just like embryonic stem cells, they can develop into any type of cell in the body.
Pluripotent stem cells are beneficial to researchers because they can be used to treat a specific condition or designed for an individual patient.
For example, they are powerful tools for developing new drugs, or discovering different approaches to treat a disease.
As discussed above, not all methods of stem cell research are alike. Far too many people don’t know there’s a way to obtain stem cells that respects the Personhood of all innocent human life.
Personhood defenders are encouraged to be prepared to discuss this issue when appropriate with friends, legislators, and even their doctors.
Sources: lozierinstitute.org; cbhd.org; yourgenome.org; closerlookatstemcells.org; gotquestions.org.
By Wayne DuBois
Georgia Right to Life
Media Relations Advisor