Many people have heard the term stem cell research in the last few years. Some may have even been inclined to do some research on their own, outside of what the media was telling them. However, there are many misunderstood facts about stem cell research which cause some to view it as an evil practice, including churches.

While here in America the number one complainants about stem cell research are overly zealous Christians with something to prove, there are countless other activist groups that oppose the research in other parts of the world. The main concern of all of these groups is that, to benefit from the research, scientists are killing innocent children. In fact, stem cell research is commenced at such an early stage of embryonic development that the basis of these claims is simply based on people’s religions and personal viewpoints.

Many people, despite their qualms about stem cell research, would not be hesitant to accept treatments that arose from these experiments where they have been able to grow healthy, functioning cells to combat various consequences of some diseases. Despite these unfounded fears and willingness to personally benefit from the use of research they so adamantly condemn, scientists, because of legislation, found a way to culture what is known as pluripotent stem cells without the need of an embryo.

Pluripotent cells are able to grow into the three primary germ layers while self-renewing themselves indefinitely. With this discovery, the limitations that were in place on stem cell research were lifted and scientists were allowed to, once again, use new lines of stem cells for research. The new research is hoped to eventually lead to cures for cancer, AIDS and other terminal illnesses which can only be prolonged right now.