Research on Human Embryos
By | Oct 9, 2007
Should it be allowed?
Are there circumstances in which it is acceptable to carry out research on human embryos, knowing that in the process the embryo will be destroyed? The purpose of research may be produce stem cells, which can differentiate into any of the different types of cells found in the human body. There are potential benefits in the use of stem cells for future repair of damaged cells or tissue, perhaps even the creation of organs to replace worn out body parts. However we have to realise that these achievements are in the future and have some risks e.g. multiplying stem cells may not be easy to control and may give rise to tumours. Other research may be directed at curing inherited diseases or other illnesses such as cancer, or to understanding and treating infertility.
Where will these embryos come from?
The embryos used for research may have been created during the process of IVF in order to provide a child for an infertile couple, and are seen as ‘surplus to requirements’. Alternatively they could be created from donated eggs and sperm specifically in order to be used for research. Another possibility is that embryos be created by a cloning technique, using a donated egg and DNA from an adult cell.
How shall we decide?
Our responses to these questions will depend on the value we place on human embryos. At one end of the spectrum is the concept that an embryo is created by God within an act of love, and therefore has a particular value due to its relationship with God and God’s purpose for it. Those who hold this belief generally will reject any artificial reproductive technologies and certainly will find research on embryos unacceptable.
The argument for using embryos created specifically for research is that such an embryo is on a different life path. If an embryo is created by IVF for would-be parents, it is intended that it become a child, and so its life story is directed to this end. From conception it is already an object of love from its parents and to destroy it is ending the life of a potential human being. An embryo created for the purpose of research has not been on the path to become a child and so may be considered to have a different value.
There are those who regard an embryo as simply a cluster of cells until it reaches a particular stage, perhaps implantation in the mother, perhaps ‘quickening’ when movement is felt, perhaps at birth when it can exist independently. For these people, research on embryos in the first few days after fertilisation would not be a problem.
Destruction of a potential human being or a source of hope?
In considering the embryo as a potential human being entitled to respect and mana, we are also constrained to remember that compassion is a Christian virtue, and that we need to take into account the possible relief of human pain and suffering which may result from embryonic research.
Where to now?
As part of the current debate concerning the use of human embryos for research, the Advisory Committee on Assisted Reproductive Technology (ACART) will release a discussion document early in December inviting responses from the general public, in preparation to their advising the Minister of Health regarding this issue. Whether or not we as Christians contribute to the debate, decisions must and will be made, and you are urged to think about the issues, and make submissions if you feel you are able to do this. Further information may be obtained from the following sources:
- Toi Te Taiao:The Bioethics Council at www.bioethics.org.nz
- Advisory Committee on Assisted Reproductive Technology at www.newhealth.govt.nz/acart
- You are also invited to communicate your ideas and concerns to the Interchurch Bioethics Council at jarvis.ab@xtra.co.nz
Users
“Would to God that all the Lord's people were Prophets.” Num. 11:29
Join in and add to the JUSTwiki today. Stories, reflection, news, comment. Be heard. Be just.
Hikoi of Hope: Walking On – Introduction
Submit a comment