Some see any fertilized egg as a predeveloped human being. They oppose any experiementation on these eggs even if they're going to be discarded. Of course, other people disagree. However, it seems some people's opinion counts for more than others.

*** So far, yes. As with other topics, the majority of people pro/con/in-between will keep fluctuating with time. Remember when in vitro and 'the' pill were first introduced?

From what I've heard and read, there appear to be three different sources for stem cells: embryos, umbilical cord blood, and adults. Only the embryotic stem cells are controversial. From all I've read, adult stem cells might not be as good but the umbilical stem cells are supposedly very good.

*** That's right, Larry. Also, that it was brought up that they would use the stem cells that would not have been able to be transplanted for some reason or another, but would still be good for specific studies/applications. I've been told that they have been using stem cells from aborted fetuces, although I don't know that for a fact. The latter opens up yet another box of arguments and potential problems.

Some will also argue that government sponsored research like this is just another form of corporate welfare. I believe they have a point. If stem cells have such monumental potential, why aren't the drug companies funding their own research? The fact is, they are funding a lot of their own research so why does the government have to get involved.

*** Something else I heard regarding this is that by government intervention/support, scientific finding would immediately be available to the medical profession and not just kept to the private drug/medical companies.

I have to wonder is we aren't all being fed a lot of hype over stem cells. I can see their potential but it does sound like this is being oversold. I heard someone tell Congress last week that stem cells might help "100 million Americans". Are they seriously claiming that one out of every 2.8 Americans have such serious medical problems? I find that hard to believe.

Furthermore, I read of some early stem cell experiments on humans. If I remember correctly, the case I heard about involved people with Parkinson's disease. The stem cells actually made them worse, far worse off than they were before the experiment.

*** There are operations/surgeries presently being done to 'relieve' the symptoms of Parkinson's. In most cases, it has made a huge difference with long lasting effects.

*** As for cloning... I haven't made my mind up yet on that. I understand the concept. There 'could' be some benefits to it and then, I think it should be regulated. The Italians that wish to use cloning as a last resort because they are infertile and wish to pass on their DNA, may have other reasons for doing this. In other words, not just the reason for passing on their DNA, i.e., inheritance, power, money... You think that these parents have thought about using stem cell research along with DNA research to erase their fertility problem from their future cloned offspring?

I know!

I'm thankfull we have two healthy children. We may have adopted otherwise.

Marcia