a question of ethics - hybrid embryos - the uk bill

The first kind of hybrid allowed under the bill, known as a chimeric embryo, is made by injecting cells from an animal into a human embryo. The second, known as a human transgenic embryo, involves injecting animal DNA into a human embryo. The third, known as a cytoplasmic hybrid, is created by transferring the nuclei of human cells, such as skin cells, into animal eggs from which almost all the genetic material has been removed.

This is this type of human-animal embryo that is being developed in British universities. Scientists say that developing these embryos will provide a plentiful source of stem cells - immature cells that can develop into many different types of tissue - for use in medical research.

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Candy

Interesting. The science is incredible, it can contribute in many positive things to humans..but i think that it's imperfect, too. and there're a lot of money invested in unnecessary things.

Disenchantedaisy

Wow...here we go again, playing God.

Geology Byotch

I have mixed feelings on this. First off, I think that preserving human life at all costs is bullshit, and that this is pretty sick, what exactly are they "growing", is it lifeforms with hearts & a spinal column? Sounds like it. And I am a scientist, but some science just seems wrong and asking for trouble, like genetically altered corn. I know something about the evolution of life, and things evolve as they do for a reason.

However, if my son developed a horrid disease or condition and it happened this technology would preserve his life, well...it's kind of like the death penalty. If someone killed my son I would definitely want them in the ground. So it is difficult to judge such things.

karlos

I am sure the intellectuals will discuss this at great length and file massive reports regarding the subject but to me, sometimes my head and heart just say - no way, that's just so wrong and that's that - this just don't seem right to me.


Disenchantedaisy

I know what you mean. It has all the makings of a sci fi slash horror flick, if you think about it.

karlos
Governments often wheel out the preservation of life argument for medical research but they seem quite content to send troops to war to kill and be killed.
karlos
Gordon Brown yesterday succumbed to pressure from the Catholic church and some cabinet colleagues to allow Labour MPs a free vote on the most controversial parts of the embryology bill. MPs will be given a free vote on three sections of the bill, including - allowing scientists to create embryos with human DNA and animal cells - whether fertility clinics should be barred from refusing treatment to single women and lesbians - and - on creating a child with the correct tissue match to save a sick brother or sister.

MPs will be expected to vote for the bill as a whole on the third reading even if the controversial measures are included.

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