Using Stem Cells to Save Endangered Species 73
RogerRoast writes "Starting with normal skin cells, scientists from The Scripps Research Institute have produced the first stem cells from endangered species. Such cells could eventually make it possible to improve reproduction and genetic diversity for some species, possibly saving them from extinction, or to bolster the health of endangered animals in captivity. The study was published in the recent issue of Nature Methods."
Re:good idea and (Score:5, Informative)
Actually no, it's easier to make stem cells. That's why they take the trouble...
The catch here is this: It is easier to SAY to stop killing them, but it's certainly not as easy to get them to stop being killed.
There is a vast number of reasons:
* The animals could be being poached - African Elephants, Rhinos, Lions etc?
* There may be an introduced predator doing the killing - Cane Toads in Australia for example.
* There could be some disease running rampant through the natural animal population - Tasmanian Devils in Australia are being wiped out by a cancerous growth on their snouts.
For the folks doing this research and development, it is not only easier for them to make stem cells, but it is the thing that they can do personally. A scientist working in a lab may not be able to suddenly pick up a gun and go protecting wildlife in another country - but he might be able to help save some through his medical research.
Re:"Conservatives" aren't going to like this... (Score:2, Informative)
The "conservatives" are going to go off...science, playing with life? Ain't nobody allowed to usurp the powers of their God.
'Cept them, of course, if it is something that they can deploy against scientists and other forms of liberals...e.g., taking an inanimate object like an article of incorporation, breathing "life" into it, and giving it so many rights that it becomes a supercitizen that can overwhelm the voices of millions of the *old-fashioned kind of citizens.
(*You know, the human kind?).
Condescending remarks.... check. Stereotyping.... check. Paranoia.... check. Sarcasm and exaggeration as the basis for an arguement.... check.
Move on, nothing to see here.