anotherlook

Fertility is a growing problem in many countries in the world. It is estimated that 1 in 7 couples have problems with fertility, thus reproduction. In London, a medical first has been discovered, British scientist claim to have found a solution to the male fertility problem; a solution that some are calling morale madness.

The process is a by product of embryonic stem cell research which would allow human sperm to be created from embryos. This new technique involves taking stem cells from embryos in the first stages of life, prompting them to develop into many different cell types, marking and isolating those that have characteristics of early sperm and with certain chemicals added, they seem to show some growth and push out a tail so they can move like normal sperm.

Embryonic stem cells have a nearly unlimited ability to create any type of cells found in the body and have already been used successfully to create human egg cells as well as heart, brain, pancreatic cells and other cells that function like ordinary cells. While this new “sperm” is illegal to use in fertility treatment, the knowledge gained on how sperm is developed could help researchers develop treatments to enable infertile men an earnest chance to produce a biological child.

Stem cell research has been condemned by the Catholic leaders because of the way stem cells are harvested from embryos that show potential for life – this is nothing less that murder in the eyes of the church; on the same level as abortion.

Never the less, New York Governor David A. Paterson today announced the availability of $21.5 million is State funding for stem cell research. This investment highlights New York’s commitment to stem cell research with the hope of being recognized as a national leader in biomedical research with the potential to create jobs and develop a new economy based on knowledge, innovation and technology which would hopefully draw business and jobs to the state.

Although the main goal of stem cell research has been cited as the search for treatments of devastating diseases, already with the creation of “sperm” it has taken on a new path with more paths to come I’m sure. Yet, through this research, no cures have been found for devastating diseases such as cancer or simpler illnesses such as the common cold or any other disease that is costing serious money to treat and burdening our health care system.

Some researchers are unconvinced that the information provided in this newest discovery of manufactured sperm can actually be called spermatozoa; citing the observation that this sperm did not have the specific shape, movement and function of real sperm while still acknowledging that this is a marvelous first step in the direction of obtaining human sperm from embryonic cells.

What is the real motivation in stem cell research? In the final analysis is it mankind’s desire, born from arrogance and ego, to become as God in the creation of man. Where will this end, this soup bowl creativity of the creation of man. Will the ultimate man be finally created or will we instead create an indestructible monster in our midst. I’m glad I will not be around to see the final outcome because just the thought takes my imagination to levels that are somewhat frightening.

And that’s the way I see it!!!

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