> > Unfortunately, that is all I have right now. I do feel that if stem cells can be obtained from miscarried fetuses or other "natural" abortions, I would feel that this would be an acceptable source of stem cells for research, but my understanding is that there are not enough such cells available to do any real amount of research.
> >
> As far as I know, it isn't an option because the stem cells have to be harvested from an embryo not more than four days old.

Sometimes in the news there will be a blurb about how scientists somewhere have discovered a new source of stem cells located in [body part]. I recall mentions of both bone marrow and fat cells, taken from adult humans, either containing stem cells or being reverted to stem cells. Perhaps there were other sources as well. In America, at least, there is no shortage of people willing to donate fat cells, and no moral problems associated with doing so. It seems like a real winner for the researchers.

Even if donated adult cells are a more expensive, less efficient way to do the stem cell research, the alternative of farming or buying humans for research is just ghastly.

At the other end, I have a strong disagreement with my family about genetic research and engineering in general. To put it concisely, I don't see the difference between large scale surgery and small scale surgery. Thus, I think it would be great if it were possible for parents to eliminate genetic diseases and correct genetic defects in their children. However, wanting "designer children" is something I cannot understand at all. Ethically, it also seems wrong, like giving a normal infant plastic surgery.

A lot of people say genetic therapy is going too far. But, people have said that about so many healthful practices that are now routine. I can't help but wonder if the current queasy cautioning will dissipate as well.

gabby