The report concludes that it is possible to conduct embryonic stem cell research in a fully ethical manner. At the same time, however, it acknowledges that reasonable people differ over the type of research that should be funded by public monies because of genuine ethical concerns, and that it is critical to promote public dialogue among all segments of society on the implications of stem cell research.
One of the misconceptions held by some is that study of adult stem cells will be sufficient to realize
the medical promise of this line of research. But the prevailing view of expert scientific opinion is
that it is far too early to know if adult stem cells have the same potential as embryonic stem cells. It
is important to convey to the public the limitations and preliminary nature of much of the research
on adult stem cells. It is likely to take years to discover whether adult stem cells will be effective in
treating many diseases that may be treatable sooner with embryonic or fetal stem cells. We believe
it would not be compassionate public policy to prohibit or hinder research in any of these areas.
Our report makes clear the importance of establishing ethical guidelines that respect public
sensitivities to this issue and offers several recommendations for balancing the promises of human
stem cell research with the public's concerns. In fact, a major reason for public funding is to ensure
that such research, now done exclusively in the private sector with virtually no public oversight, is
transparent and monitored in a manner that safeguards the public's interest in ensuring the highest
ethical standards in conducting stem cell research. It is also important to recognize that embryos
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Contact: Nisha Narayanan
nnarayan@aaas.org
202-326-6434
American Association for the Advancement of Science
24-Jul-2001