Embryonic death and the creation of human embryonic stem cells
Donald W. Landry, Howard A. Zucker
Donald W. Landry, Howard A. Zucker
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Embryonic death and the creation of human embryonic stem cells

Abstract

The creation of human embryonic stem cells through the destruction of a human embryo pits the value of a potential therapeutic tool against that of an early human life. This contest of values has resulted in a polarized debate that neglects areas of common interest and perspective. We suggest that a common ground for pursuing research on human embryonic stem cells can be found by reconsidering the death of the human embryo and by applying to this research the ethical norms of essential organ donation.

Authors

Donald W. Landry, Howard A. Zucker

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Figure 1

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Human embryonic stem cells. The steps from fertilized egg obtained by IV...
Human embryonic stem cells. The steps from fertilized egg obtained by IVF to embryonic stem cells are depicted. A few-celled embryo gives rise to the blastocyst, a structure comprised of an outer cell layer, the trophectoderm, and the ICM. The ICM is harvested and plated on feeder cells, then replated (not shown) to yield a population of embryonic stem cells.