Source: Washington Post
Posted: October 23, 2006
Summary:
Scientists announced that nerve cells grown from human embryonic stem cells significantly reduced symptoms of Parkinson's Disease in rats. In a negative side effect of the treatment, the stem cells also caused tumors in the rodents' brains. Researchers said the work showed both the potential benefits and risks of human embryonic stem cells, which have been highly touted for their ability to replace diseased tissue but are controversial because they are derived through the destruction of human embryos.
Commentary: Hopefully this finding will provide scientists with new insights into both potential uses as well as risk factors to be aware of before they administer embryonic stem cells to to treat diseases, injuries and other medical conditions in humanns.
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