This project investigated the topic of stem cells, describing the various types of stem cells, their potencies, their uses, and their effects on society via ethical and legal issues. We conclude that not all stem cells require the destruction of an embryo to obtain them, although these adult stem cells (ASCs) have less potency than embryonic stem (ES) cells. We support the use of alternatives to ES cells whenever possible, including the exciting recent discovery of induced ES cells (iES) that are adult fibroblast cells induced by specific genes to de-differentiate into ES-like cells. We also support efforts to re-establish federal funding for ES cell research in the United States.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Hong, June-Chi
• Chemmalil, Vinith Das

Subject

• Health
• Well-Being
• Community

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-022208-190109

Parola chiave

• Public health
• Stem cells

Advisor

• Adams, David S.

Year

• 2008

Date created

• 2008-02-22

luogo

• Worcester

Resource type

• Interactive Qualifying Project

Rights statement

• In Copyright