Friday, February 23, 2007
A 2002 study that suggested adult stem cells might be as useful as embryonic ones was flawed and its conclusions may be wrong, a scientific panel says — a finding that raises questions about the promise of a less controversial source for stem cells.
The research by Catherine Verfaillie at the University of Minnesota concluded that adult stem cells taken from the bone marrow of mice could grow into an array of biological tissues, including brain, heart, lung and liver.
So far only embryonic stem cells, which are commonly retrieved by destroying embryos at an early stage of development, are known to hold such regenerative promise. Many scientists believe they might one day be used to treat certain diseases and other conditions.
I listened to deep thinkers like Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity state that because of this study, we no longer needed to use embryonic cells because the adult cells were "just as good". Watch for any reaction if it comes. Another excuse shall be made as flimsy as the first. In a way this story comes at a good time, after the house voted to loosen restrictions on stem cell research, a bill the President threatens to veto. At least there is one less canard for those who hate progress to rest their arguments upon.
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