The debate over embryonic stem cell research pros and cons has been ongoing for several years now. There are many people who refuse to recognize the usefulness of this research in helping very sick people be cured, or at least helped through the knowledge gained from this research. It is one of the most promising of all research methods, and the supporters of it are more than happy to share what they have learned.

There are 3 different types of stem cells that can be used for research but the most controversial is the embryonic cell. These are extracted from the embryo before the cells begin to separate. In this stage, the embryo is called a "blastocyst." The majority of the 100 cells contained in the blastocyst are stem cells. They can be grown and maintained in cultures indefinitely. They will also replicate and double their numbers every 3 days. The problem arises from the way these cells must be obtained. The embryo has to be destroyed for that to happen.

Scientists and researchers believe that the study of these embryonic stem cells is the way to find cures for many diseases and illnesses. These include Alzheimer's disease, cancer, diabetes, and Parkinson's disease to name a few. The list goes on and on. It is believed that research of the embryonic stem cells is what will bring about understanding of human development along with how diseases start and the best way to treat them. What could be more of a positive reason for ANY type of research than to, one day, end human suffering?

Much has already been learned from this type of research and there is so much more information to be gathered. Even celebrities have come out in support of embryonic stem cell research. One of the most famous celebrities is Michael J. Fox, who suffers from Parkinson's disease. He has been one of the biggest supporters as his disease is one of the many that this research will one day help. He has even appeared on live television talk shows in order to show people up close and personal what a day in his life can be like when his medication wears off.

It is easy to see why healthy people who do not suffer from a debilitating and/or fatal disease might object to this type of research. They are healthy and feel they have all the time in the world for scientists to work on cures. One day, however, they may wake up and feel differently about it all if they are struck with an illness of their own.