Ask a Scientist

Everyone has a question that they would love to know the answer to! It may be something simple about growing a plant or more complex like a plant's cell structure. I had the opportunity to ask a scientist my burning question. Here is what I asked:

My question is about Somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). This involves transplanting a patients genetic material from something as simple as a skin cell into an unfertilized egg in order to grow the patient specific stem cells. No sperm is involved, and therefore no fertilization occurs, in this procedure. Also, with this process the egg is not placed in a uterus so there is no fetus or fertilized egg. My question is when will these cells be used in the treatment of diseases and other medical issues? Also do you think these cells will encounter the ethical issues that embryonic cells face?

Any many people know, stem cell research is a hot topic in today's news and politics. I am curious about this type of stem cell research due to the fact that it could benefit so many people who suffer from health issues.

I have not had any feedback from a scientist yet, but will update my blog as soon as I do. :)

Presentation Tools

Everyone needs an exceptional presentation tool in their tool kit. When checking out some presentation tools this week, I have found two that I think are really great. PreZentit is a presentation tools that is simple to use and the best part is.... if you are working on a presentation with team members you can all use this tool at the same time! That's right, you and your partner can be working on your presentation at the same time without being in the same room. I also liked Prezi due to the fact that it seems simple to me. I like the information zebra tool due to the fact that you can do so many things through the one tool. I also like the bubble menus being in the corner. I am thinking that I am going to use the Prezi for my course project. However, if you are completing your project with a partner, definitely check out the PreZentit.

Resources:

www.Prezi.com
www.PreZentit.com