Stem cell research is a controversial issue that sharply divides people. There are two kinds of stem cell research; embryonic and adult. This distinction is imperative because of the ethical issues involved.

Embryonic stem cell research requires cells to be extracted from a human embryo. In the process of extracting the stem cells the embryo is destroyed and a life is ended. The embryonic stem cells are then isolated and theoretically coaxed into developing into just about any cell in the body.

Adult stem cell research on the other hand, does not destroy life. Adult stem cells are derived from sources like umbilical cords and organ tissue. These cells have been found to be more useful than previously thought.

There are many cases where adult stem cell research has been successful in treating and curing injury and disease. These cases include helping patients paralyzed by spinal cord injuries. Adult stem cells have also been used to treat Parkinson’s disease. Embryonic stem cell research, on the other hand, has not produced a single successful treatment to date.