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Destruction of Embryo is 'Unnecessary'—Professor : 10th Nov 08
Destruction of Embryo is 'Unnecessary'—Professor
Destructive embryonic stem cell research is "scientifically unnecessary" as adult cells are far more likely to produce a cure in the next 10 to 15 years, according to the professor of bio-technology at DCU, Dr Martin Clynes.
"There have been significant advances in the field of induced pluripotent adult cells (iPs), and they are probably going to have more therapeutic value because you can take them from the patient you are going to treat so there is less risk of rejection," he said.
Professor Clynes comments come after UCC, in late October, became the first Irish third level institution to vote to allow a policy for embryonic stem cell research. Adult stem cell research is carried out in a number of locations around Ireland and is less controversial as it does not require the destruction of the embryo.
Professor Clynes described the plan by Senator Rónán Mullen to introduce legislation to ban embryonic stem cell research as a "high risk strategy". "It's clear that the direction of thinking in the Government is in favour of allowing it—there are two Government-sponsored reports recommending that research be allowed. I can't imagine the big parties allowing a free vote on the issue".
Currently there is no legal restriction on embryonic stem cell research, however, ethical guidelines from the Irish Medical Council prohibit the practice. The Irish Catholic. November.
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