Pig stem cells found useful for humans?
BBC News is reporting that Chinese scientists have “given cells from adult pigs the ability to turn into any tissue in the body, just like embryonic stem cells.” They are hoping that this “breakthrough” will aid in research into human disease, and “the breeding of animals for organ transplants for humans.” And of course, swine flu was mentioned. Because you know, testing on animals might enable them to find a “cure” for swine flu. Sigh.
They should have just asked me. I’ve got your cure right here.
Anyway, you can find the study online in the Journal of Molecular Cell Biology. The article goes on to say the ideal source for organs for transplant is in pigs since their own organs are similar in function and size to those in humans. This means they could “reprogram” stem cells of the pig so that they are compatible to human immune systems. Thus, reducing the risk of rejection.
Lead researcher Dr Lei Xiao, of the Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology said that this discovery has may useful applications. He says:
“…discovery could be used to improve animal farming, by making the animals healthier, and regulating the way they grow.”
How about we allow the pigs to grow on their own, the way they were meant to? I know, I know. Novel idea.
But not everyone thinks this is a good thing, me included. Science Director of the Dr. Hadwen Trust for Humane Research had this to say:
“Persisting with highly speculative research that would see us use sentient animals as little more that living organ grow-bags, is not only ethically unsupportable but also scientifically dubious. Creating pig stem cells does not necessarily remove the risk of organ rejection but even more worrying is the risk of infecting patients and the wider public with pig viruses.”
You know what is even more worrying to me? The continuation of experimentation on sentient animals. Animals are not ours to abuse – in any way. This is what goes on behind the closed lab doors at an animal testing facility:
Brian Gunn /IAAPEA ©
Enough said.
at 12:59 pm
The PRC doesn’t even respect human rights. They will repeat every mistake the US has made, and them some. And it’s unlikely anything can be done about it in capitalist society with a communist government.