Stem Cell Research On Humans

Controversial stem cell therapy should be used on terminally-ill patients, according to one of Scotland's leading scientists. Professor Ian Wilmut, the man behind Dolly the sheep, the world's first cloned mammal, says experimental treatment could save lives or at least speed up the pace of research. He told the Scotsman newspaper that he knew patients prepared to participate in such trials. He said: "I've come across people who have neuro-degenerative disease who face a steady, slow decline and premature death, a very unpleasant situation. They would be only too keen to participate in trials." He said that treatments which have not been properly tested should be used in such a situation, because the benefits may outweigh the risk. Prof Wilmut was appointed this month as the first director of Edinburgh University's new Centre for Regenerative Medicine. Scientists believe that stem cell therapy could provide a cure for illnesses such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and motor neurone disease. Concerns have been raised over the potentially adverse affects of the treatment at the moment, including risks of cancer. Experimental treatment has been ruled out under ethical rules. The research has provoked concerns over the use of human embryonic stem cells. It is the regenerative qualities of these cells which provide the key to the treatment. UK Health Secretary Patricia Hewitt is expected to make an announcement on research into stem cell therapy in the new year.

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