Stem cells are un-programmed cells in the human body that can be described as "shape shifters." These cells have the ability to change into other types of cells. Stem cells are at the center of a new field of science called regenerative medicine. Because stem cells can become bone, muscle, cartilage and other specialized types of cells, they have the potential to treat many diseases, including Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, diabetes and cancer. Eventually, they may also be used to regenerate organs, reducing the need for organ transplants and related surgeries. "Stem cells are like little kids who, when they grow up, can enter a variety of professions," Dr. Marc Hedrick of the UCLA School of Medicine says. "A child might become a fireman, a doctor or a plumber, depending on the influences in their life -- or environment. In the same way, these stem cells can become many tissues by making certain changes in their environment."

In the mid 1800s, scientists began to recognize that cells were the basic building blocks of life, and that cells gave rise to other cells. In the early 1900s, European scientists realized that all blood cells came

Embryonic stem-cell research is under debate in Washington, and people in Holland mirror the national split of opinion. Some believe it's a promising avenue to curing diseases. Others disapprove and say it's the unnecessary sacrificing of a life. Personally, I support stem cell research 100%. If it can, in time, save lives, cure diseases, and help to regenerate damaged organs then so be it. I also think that anyone who is against the process of stem cell research should be given a weak heart and shown what it would be like to die 20 years before people that have a perfectly healthy heart. Then see if they will change their opinions. Of Course, I also think that growing Stem Cells should be put under strict limitations, as not to create a mutant baby, or let the process get out of hand and in turn, destroy the human population. But it isn't very likely that that will happen. All in all, Stem Cell research is a major opportunity to help treat diseases, etc, but also, how long will people against Stem Cells be able to hold off the inevitable? It will happen, and it will probably be successful. But whether it happens tomorrow, next week, or during the next decade, it will happen.

There are currently bans on cloning in three of Australia's six states and another two are considering legislation. However, all the legislation differs in its approach to stem cell research, which is legal in parts of the country.

But in most cases more needs to be known before the t

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