What are the benefits of using embryonic stem cells?

As mentioned above, the biggest reason scientists tout the use of embryonic stem cells is their ability to transform, easily, into all types of tissues. Historically, scientists have only had success with adult stem cells in producing a few of the body"s 220 types of cells (though that may be changing.) Many argue that in order to produce therapies and treatments for the wide array of currently incurable diseases, a flexible stem cell is absolutely crucial. Embryonic stem cells are also easier to gather, and more importantly, offer a longer research life expectancy than adult stem cells. Eventually, the lines of cells degrade and become scientifically useless, so proponents of embryonic stem cell research stress the need for a continued source of embryo cell lines.

What are the disadvantages of using embryonic stem cells?

An obvious downside of embryonic stem cell research is the ethical issues it raises. Additionally, it is possible that the use of embryonic stem cell therapy in an adult could cause rejection by the adult's immune system, but the research on this has not yet been done.

What are the benefits of using adult stem cells?

One major potential advantage to using adult stem cells is that they can be drawn from the individual in need, grown and transformed in a laboratory, and reintroduced to the body without risk of rejection. Organ and tissue transplants from other sources require the use of immunosuppressant drugs to prevent rejection by the body"s immune system. It also protects the individual from any viruses or other antigens that may be present in another person"s cells.

Another benefit unique to adult stem cell research is the ability to produce cells that release insulin, which impacts diabetes treatment research. In fact, scientists who were hopeful that embryonic stem cells could help cure Type I diabetes found that, in one instance, they actually formed tumors instead.