Significance of Embryonic Stem Cells in Regenerative Medicine

Abstract

The turn of 21^st century is a period of rapid progress in the field of biological sciences. Scientific discoveries constitute the foundation for the development of new medical technologies that are used in the treatment of various conditions. An example of this is the use of stem cells in organ transplantation. Stem cells, which are present not only in the bodies of fetuses but also in adult people, are used for repairing damaged tissue and organs. The development of techniques for isolating, breeding, and reimplanting stem cells makes it possible to use them for these purposes. However, using stem cells in organ transplants, especially embryonic stem cells, is also the source of ethical dilemmas that result from the fact that biological material is transferred from a donor to a recipient. Experts believe that the future of stem cells in organ transplantation depends not only on the advancement of biology but also, to an equal extent, on the solving of the ethical considerations associated with this type of therapy. Finally, questions of both the essential and ethical significance of embryonic stem cells in regenerative medicine are also the result of progress in medical sciences.