[The embryonic stem cells research. Example of biotechnology progress under extra-scientific pressure]

Area of Science:

• Stem Cell Research
• Developmental Biology
• Bioethics

Context:

• Human Embryonic Stem Cells (ES) discovery in 1998 marked a significant advancement.
• Early therapeutic speculations were influenced by non-scientific factors.
• Ethical and technical challenges hindered ES cell applications.

Purpose:

• To review the historical context and scientific trajectory of Human Embryonic Stem Cells (ES).
• To contrast ES cells with Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPS).
• To emphasize the importance of ethical and rational methodologies in biomedical research.

Summary:

• The isolation of ES cells led to high expectations but also significant ethical and practical challenges.
• Therapeutic cloning scandals and financial difficulties limited ES cell clinical trials.
• Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPS) offer an alternative without embryo destruction.

Impact:

• ES cells' primary contribution may be underscoring the necessity of rigorous, ethical research practices.
• The limitations of ES cells highlight the evolution towards alternative stem cell sources.
• Biomedical research must prioritize scientific rationality and ethical considerations over speculative applications.