Stem Cell research paper.

Essay by ENGLITUniversity, Bachelor'sA+, October 2005

download word file, 9 pages 2.7 1 reviews

Stem cell research is a controversial topic that has become a heated national debate. Researchers have found that embryonic stem cells can divide and regenerate. These embryonic stem cells can grow into many types of cells and tissues. Scientists believe that embryonic stem cells can have a positive impact in finding a cure for a wide range of diseases including Parkinson's disease, while conservative groups have compared the use of embryonic stem cells to abortion. This has prompted the government to limit federal funding for embryonic stem cell research to only a few pre-existing cell lines (Rosenwald). Amid all controversy surrounding stem cells and their research, patients with Parkinson's disease and their families are losing valuable time in their search for a cure.

"Parkinson's disease is a progressive, neurologic disorder caused by a degeneration of dopamine neurons." (Hauser 11). Dopamine is a chemical in the brain that is involved in helping to control motor skills in the human body.

When dopamine levels in the brain are reduced by 60 to 80% the symptoms of Parkinson's disease appear (Hauser 11). Every patient will experience symptoms to a varying degree depending on their individual case.

David Cram M.D. lists the major symptoms of Parkinson's disease as:

-Tremors which affect the hands, arms, legs, face and jaw

-Stiffness that causes the trunk to remain tense

-Bradykinesia which is slowness of movement and sudden loss of control

-Impaired coordination that causes frequent falls

Other minor symptoms may include but are not limited to:

- Depression

-Slurred speech

-Problems swallowing

-Emotional changes (Cram 5-6).

The prognosis for Parkinson's patients varies with each patient. The average patient for the first 4-6 years of treatment will respond well to medications. At the 5-10 year period problems related to their medications tend to appear. After 10 years most...