B2 5.7 Stem cells and embryos - Advantages and disadvantages table in GCSE Biology

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Created by: Eleanor Kingston
Created on: 03-11-13 12:29

Using embryonic stem cells

Advantages

Offer best chances to find cures for serious conditions
The embryos used are spare which would probably be destroyed anyway
These embryos are created for research - they would never become babies
You could use stem cells from the umbilical chord so no embryos need to be destroyed
You could grow new tissues and organs for transplants

Disadvantages

Could cause further risk such as developing unknown cancers
All embryos could become babies - wrong to destroy them
Embryos can't give permission to be used so it is unethical
Waste of money and research time - could be put to better use

Evaluation

There are a number of ethical issues regarding using embryonic stem cells for research, but as there is no better option I feel that it is necessary to help save the lives of others.

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