Written by: Renee Hein
Editors: Liz Tidwell, Ryan Schildcrout, Maddie Barron
Human embryonic stem cells (ESCs) have made quite the name for themselves throughout history, and they continue to be a buzz-worthy topic in modern society. On the one hand, ESCs serve as valuable tools for scientists studying unique aspects of human development, such as how cells create a functioning organ and why disruptions in this process can cause disease or defects. On the other hand, there are ethical concerns surrounding the use of ESCs in research, which largely center on destroying what some consider to be a potential human life. To form an opinion on the matter, however, it’s first important to understand the facts about where ESCs come from.
Continue reading “Demystifying the origins of embryonic stem cells used in scientific research”