International stem cell research considerations.

Abstract

Legislative bodies in the international arena and in individual countries are actively engaged in developing policies regarding the establishment, distribution and use of human embryonic stem cells. Present and anticipated policies concerning research on human adult and embryonic stem cells of possible medical importance reflect the wide spectrum of popular views that range from complete rejection to enthusiastic support. Since the public debate concerning the use of human gametes or embryos for research purposes is not likely to abate anytime soon, all the more urgent becomes the quest for alternative approaches toward generating stem cells that are not embryonic and yet are pluripotent.