Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Nebraskans Feel About This Research?
Findings of a statewide poll commissioned by Nebraskans for Research in 2002 show more than two-thirds (70%) of Nebraska registered voters support fetal cell research at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Nearly ¾ of the registered voters contacted also indicated support for embryonic stem cell research should it be conducted in the future at UNMC.
What Is Therapeutic Cloning?
Better described as somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), therapeutic cloning is the transplanting of a patient’s DNA into an unfertilized egg in order to grow stem cells that could cure devastating diseases. The promise of SCNT is that the patient’s body would accept these cells after transplantation. Therapeutic cloning produces stem cells, not babies. No sperm is used in this procedure. The cells are not transplanted into a womb. SCNT aims to treat or cure patients by creating tailor-made, genetically identical cells that their bodies won’t reject. In other words, SCNT could allow patients to be cured using their own DNA.
What Is Reproductive Cloning?
Reproductive cloning is the use of cloning technology to create a child. NFR opposes reproductive cloning. Patient advocacy groups and leading scientists, and a majority of Americans agree that human reproductive cloning should not be allowed.
HOW Can Therapeutic Cloning (SCNT) Help Cure Diseases?
Many of the most debilitating diseases are caused by damage to cells and tissue. When combined with stem cell research, SCNT could be used to develop new and innovative treatments that allow organs to function again and restore hope to millions of families. SCNT could allow researchers to develop stem cell therapies that are tailored to an individual’s medical condition. SCNT could help scientists develop stem cells that will not be attacked and destroyed by the body’s immune system. This holds particular promise for patients who suffer from diabetes, heart disease and spinal cord injuries.
WILL Therapeutic Cloning Lead To Science Creating Life?
No. In therapeutic cloning, there is no fertilization of the egg by sperm, no implantation in the uterus and no pregnancy. Dr. Herald Varmus, the former head of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and a Nobel Laureate, says there is a profound distinction between cloning with the intent of making a human being and research cloning to help understand and treat life-threatening disease and conditions.
Don't We Already Have Enough Stem Cells For Research?
No. There are only a small number of National Institute of Health approved embryonic stem cell lines available to government-supported researchers and not enough to proceed at full pace with extensive research into treatments and cures. Scientists need more cell lines to fulfill the promise of embryonic stem cell research.
How Do Nebraskans Feel About This Research?
Findings of a statewide poll commissioned by Nebraskans for Research in 2002 show more than two-thirds (70%) of Nebraska registered voters support fetal cell research at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Nearly ¾ of the registered voters contacted also indicated support for embryonic stem cell research should it be conducted in the future at UNMC. |
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