American Academy of Pediatrics statement on Human Embryonic Stem Cell and Human Embryo Research

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23109685

Pediatrics. 2012 Oct 29. [Epub ahead of print]

Human Embryonic Stem Cell (hESC) and Human Embryo Research.

COMMITTEE FOR PEDIATRIC RESEARCH and COMMITTEE ON BIOETHICS.

Abstract

Human embryonic stem cell research has emerged as an important platform for the understanding and treatment of pediatric diseases. From its inception, however, it has raised ethical concerns based not on the use of stem cells themselves but on objections to the source of the cells-specifically, the destruction of preimplantation human embryos. Despite differences in public opinion on this issue, a large majority of the public supports continued research using embryonic stem cells. Given the possible substantial benefit of stem cell research on child health and development, the American Academy of Pediatrics believes that funding and oversight for human embryo and embryonic stem cell research should continue.