ABSTRACT

This paper will focus on stem cell research and identifying ways that this type of therapy can be used as a treatment for injuries and diseases. Stem cell research is one of the most heavily regulated research areas, but also one of the most important research areas to date. There are many misconceptions about stem cell research that need to be addressed and will be discussed in this paper while getting a deeper understanding on why stem cell research is so important. Stem cells come in various forms and can treat various diseases or injuries that could potentially increase a patient's quality of life. Stem cells are not a general cure for all diseases and injuries but they can make more options available for treatments. While stem cell treatment is still in the clinical stages for most cases, the trials are advancing every day. There are countless treatments being used today, things like invasive surgery and transplants of donor organs. However, nothing is better than a patient’s own cells. There is no chance of rejection, not waiting on a transplant list for a bone marrow match, etc. That is just the beginning of what stem cell therapy can be used for, with the technological advancements being made every day there is the potential for more patients' lives being saved. While there are some risks involved and heavy restrictions, the positives will outweigh the risks that can potentially come into play.