Which common concern is shared by both proponents and opponents of using stem cells in medical research?

• A. The lack of potential medical benefits from stem cell research
• B. The high cost of traditional drug therapies compared to stem cell treatments
• C. Ethical considerations regarding the source of stem cells
• D. The inability of stem cells to differentiate into specialized cell types

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context of stem cell research: Stem cells are unique cells capable of differentiating into specialized cell types, making them valuable for medical research and treatments.
2. Identify the concerns of proponents and opponents: Both groups share ethical considerations regarding the source of stem cells, particularly when embryonic stem cells are involved, as their extraction can raise moral and ethical questions.
3. Clarify why other options are less relevant: For example, the inability of stem cells to differentiate into specialized cell types is not accurate, as stem cells are defined by their ability to differentiate. Similarly, the lack of potential medical benefits is not a shared concern, as stem cell research has demonstrated significant potential.
4. Discuss the ethical debate: Proponents argue that stem cell research can lead to groundbreaking medical advancements, while opponents may raise concerns about the moral implications of using embryonic stem cells, emphasizing the need for alternative sources like adult or induced pluripotent stem cells.
5. Conclude with the shared concern: Ethical considerations regarding the source of stem cells are central to the debate, as both sides recognize the importance of addressing these issues responsibly in medical research.