Those Annoying Stem Cells

Recently, researchers found a way to get normal skin cells to act like embryonic stem cells. It's odd research and the news stories can be confusing to me because the research has morphed into a very serious battle between science and religion and I think most of the people involved in the fight are trying to battle for their religious beliefs rather than truly looking for answers to disease.

Keep in mind, I'm not just talking about religious 'armchair scientists' who call into radio talk shows, I've been reading articles in science magazines that were bent on destroying religion and showed no intention to cure disease. Both sides of this debate are guilty of forgetting what we are really doing with this research.

Anyway, Fred Thompson issued this statement giving his views on the matter, I think it's pretty much what I have been thinking.

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November 20, 2007

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For Immediate Release

Statement by Fred Thompson on Adult Cell Research Breakthrough

McLean, VA - Senator Fred Thompson issued the following statement regarding today's scientific breakthrough in adult cell research:

"There is exciting news for patients today. In yet another breakthrough for adult cell research, scientists have made normal human skin cells take on the relevant properties of embryonic stem cells. That is in addition to 73 breakthroughs for adult and cord blood research to date. There are still no embryonic stem cell breakthroughs.

"For all who are concerned for patients and their families, the effective, ethical, and compassionate answer is to put our money where the breakthroughs are happening -- in adult research.

"Using adult cells negates the need for cloning embryos to harvest their stem cells.

"We all want to find cures to help people with chronic illnesses. Adult cells have provided breakthroughs for many illnesses including ovarian and breast cancer, Juvenile Diabetes, Parkinson's Disease, and Sickle Cell Anemia. Today's announcement is just one more indication that our current policy in relying only on adult cells is working."