Sunday, July 15, 2012

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. :)
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3 comments:

  1. JanieJuly 16, 2012 at 1:19 PM

    Jennifer,
    Your question came right on the heels of our next week's discussion on genetic testing and research.

    I hope you get a response from a Scientist, but my .02 on whether these cells will encounter the ethical issues is yes. Not because of the same issues as embryonic, but because now with any new cell testing, people will associate with the hype and controversy from the past without clearly understanding the specifics of the research. It seems to be the culture of people who lack the ability to think for themselves to learn about what is REALLY going on.

    Janie

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  2. Alethea's Sci LinksJuly 20, 2012 at 2:16 PM

    Jennifer,
    That is a good question. I was introduced to a genetic topic that I was not familiar with, which is Somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). It seems to be a fascinating subject. I would like to hear the feedback you receive from the Ask a Scientist website. This research seems to hold a great deal of promise for people suffering from various health disorders.
    Alethea

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  3. LoriJuly 29, 2012 at 10:57 AM

    Jennifer, I agree with Janie that controversy will definitely follow. Sometimes I feel that the uninformed just love to hear themselves. Just like Janie said, they just jump on the band wagon cause it is a band wagon. SCNT is fascinating and I hope it will workout to be regular practice for growth of organs and tissue that are desparetly needed.

    Lori

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