# Some people are against the use of embryonic stem cells in medical research. Outline the arguments for and against the use of embryonic stem cells in medical research.

> WJEC GCSE Biology (Wales) — 2.2.2 Stem cells · Outline · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Embryonic stem cells can differentiate into any type of cell (they are totipotent/pluripotent), making them useful for treating a wide range of diseases.
2. Stem cells could be used to replace damaged or diseased tissue/organs, offering potential treatments for conditions such as Parkinson's disease, heart disease, or spinal cord injuries.
3. The embryo is destroyed during the process, which some people consider to be the destruction of a potential human life.
4. There is a risk that transplanted embryonic stem cells could be rejected by the patient's immune system, or could divide uncontrollably and form tumours.

## Key terms

- [embryonic stem cells](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/embryonic-stem-cells)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/some-people-are-against-the-use-cde2e575) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.