Why UCC’s decision should be applauded

AS members of the stem cell research community, our ultimate goal is curing illness and alleviating human suffering.

Unfortunately, there is also controversy, and sometimes misunderstanding, about the nature of stem cell research and the fact that all forms of such research are vital if we are to reach our goals.

While there have been new advances in adult stem cell research leading some to believe that other forms of stem cell research are no longer needed, nothing is further from the truth.

It is not possible to predict exactly what research will lead to a breakthrough therapy — which is why all forms of stem cell research must be pursued and protected. Limitation of research would essentially tie one hand behind researchers’ backs and limit the discoveries that could result.

The International Society for Stem Cell Research, representing some of the world’s leading stem cell researchers, has joined with other leading scientists to issue an open letter to reiterate the urgent need for support for all types of stem cell research and calls for a science-based discussion of stem cell research that puts the needs of patients in the centre of the debate.

It is our hope that with research and time, safe, effective and proven stem cell therapies will be available to those with chronic diseases in the future.

UCC’s decision to carefully regulate embryonic stem cell research is be applauded and is consistent with the realisation that Ireland is not doing all it could for patients with life-debilitating diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases, diabetes, etc, and needs to have guidelines that protect the patient and embryo.

It is my expectation that other Irish universities will quickly follow suit and will begin to inform people as to why such research is so important and necessary.

Dr Stephen Sullivan

Dept of Anatomy and Embryology

Leiden University Medical Centre The Netherlands