Stem Cell Debate

Nowgen, in partnership with the Museum of Science and Industry invited the public to debate about the use of stem cells in scientific research. ‘Stem Cells: Hype or Hope?’ was chaired by Professor Trevor Cox with a panel including Dr. Daniel Brison, a Consultant Embryologist from the North West Embryonic Stem Cell Centre, Sarah Devaney, Lecturer in Medical Law, from The University of Manchester and Josephine Quintavalle, Founder of the Comment on Reproductive Ethics (CORE) Group.

The event, held on the 22 April in conjunction with the Bodyworlds exhibition was a follow up from a similar event held last year on the same topic. It was attended by approximately 80 members of the public who were keen to explore questions including:

• What are the advantages of using embryonic stem cells rather than those from other sources?

• Is it more morally acceptable to create embryos solely for research purposes rather than to use discarded embryos from IVF?

• At what point does a human being gain full moral status?

A rich discussion touched upon the issues surrounding using animal – human hybrids for research, and involving the public in making policy decisions on sourcing and using stem cells in research and future medical practice.

Links

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Museum for Science and Industry

North West Embryonic Stem Cell Centre

University of Manchester Law Department

Comment on Reproductive Ethics Group