Summary # 3 "Stem Cell Research"

In the book “Stem Cell Research” which was published by University of Notre Dame in 2003, the author, Nancy E. Snow reported about the cord blood stem cells as well as the morality of deriving such cells from embryos. The author explained that the umbilical cord blood is human blood collected from placenta after the cord has been detached from newborn baby. In addition, the author claimed that umbilical cord blood stem cells have advantages of embryonic stem cells because during the process of collecting the cord blood, the baby is not harmed or destroyed. Also the author pointed out that there is no controversy issue about how cord blood stem cells are derived. Nancy E. Snow mentioned that cord blood stem cells have been used since 1980s to treat a number of diseases, cancers and other disorders. Snow demonstrated that cord blood is being projected and seen as a form of insurance by saving cord blood through banks. Moreover, the author stated that cord blood bank facility is being provided by both private and public centers. The author explained the situation around the cord blood; it is not necessary to store cord blood for private use. Nancy E. Snow also argued that chances that patients will use their own cord blood stem cells for transplant are low as they may never require them. However, the author indicated that opponents of storing their own cord blood stem cells agreed that there is a small chance that donor will use his/her cord blood stem cells, but these stem cells will be available for treatment parents and siblings.