• Question: why are scientists researching stem cells

    Asked by 06knightj to Laura, Lily, Mark, Paul, Sarah on 18 Jun 2010 in Categories: . This question was also asked by bertie.
    • Photo: Laura Maliszewski

      Laura Maliszewski answered on 16 Jun 2010:

      For two reasons. First to figure out how people start as one single cell and become these large complex organisms (not a simple problem!). Secondly to see if that information can be used to treat diseases.

    • Photo: Lily Asquith

      Lily Asquith answered on 16 Jun 2010:

      They have strong evidence that stem cells could be used to treat lots of diseases and disabilities including cancer and paralysis.

    • Photo: Mark Roberts

      Mark Roberts answered on 16 Jun 2010:

      Stem cells allow us to answer questions about how our bodies develop from a little ball of cells. It also allows us to understand when it goes wrong in both degenerative diseases and in cancers so it can tell us a lot and suggest new cures. They may even become a cure themselves as it may one day be possible to put working cells in to replace ones that have failed in diseases like parkinsons

    • Photo: Sarah Bardsley

      Sarah Bardsley answered on 18 Jun 2010:

      Stem cells have the potential to help us develop cures and treatments for diseases that affect a lot of people and impact their lives drastically. Its a controversial subject but an area of science I believe needs to be fully explored for the benefit of many people.

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