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Stem cell research: elephants in the room.

Neil D Theise1

  • 1Department of Pathology, Division of Digestive Diseases, Beth Israel Medical Center, New York, NY 10003, USA. ntheise@chpnet.org

Mayo Clinic Proceedings
|August 13, 2003
PubMed
Summary

Identifying "elephants" or challenges in adult stem cell research can improve progress. Awareness of these issues helps researchers and stakeholders avoid mistakes and ensure accountability for responsible scientific advancement.

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Area of Science:

  • Adult stem cell research
  • Biomedical ethics
  • Scientific progress

Background:

  • The field of adult stem cell research faces significant challenges that can impede progress.
  • These challenges, referred to metaphorically as "elephants," can complicate discourse and hinder efficient advancement.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify and name the disruptive factors within the adult stem cell research field.
  • To propose a framework for addressing these challenges to foster more efficient scientific progress.

Main Methods:

  • Conceptual analysis and discussion of common issues in adult stem cell research.
  • Identification of key areas where progress is hindered by specific challenges or "elephants."

Main Results:

  • Several "elephants" or disruptive issues within the adult stem cell field have been identified.
  • These issues, while sometimes enlivening discourse, largely interfere with efficient progress and require careful management.

Conclusions:

  • Naming and acknowledging these "elephants" is a crucial first step toward mitigating their negative impact.
  • Increased awareness and open discussion are essential for holding scientists, politicians, journalists, and entrepreneurs accountable, leading to more responsible practices and faster cleanup of research impediments.

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