UW Badger Catholic and embryonic stem-cell research

Two opponents of embryonic stem cell research expressed enthusiasm for a recent UW discovery of highly functional stem cells that do not require embryonic cells to function.

Justin Brumbaugh, a UW-Madison graduate student who helped lead the study, said the stem cells, called induced pluripotent cells, do not require embryos or fetal cells but have the same capabilities as embryonic stem cells.

Nico Fassino, chair of Badger Catholic, said he strongly opposes embryonic stem-cell research, but applauds scientists' efforts to create an alternative that does not "take advantage of defenseless persons."

"I think that's a really beautiful scientific breakthrough," Fassino said. "I really hope they're able to apply this to … the medical field, so this has a wide and positive impact on curing a lot of the ailments that embryonic stem-cell research is currently aimed at."

According to Fassino, the Catholic reservation toward embryonic stem-cell research does not come from an inherent dislike for scientific progress but from the belief that every human life begins at conception, making the destruction of embryos for science murder in their eyes.

"[The study] demonstrates that nature will find a way," said Matt Sande, Director of Legislation at Pro-Life Wisconsin. "There's always an ethical way to achieve a medical and scientific way if we are diligent and patient."

During his campaign, Gov. Scott Walker did not take a decisive stance for or against stem cell-research as a whole, but did firmly oppose research involving embryonic stem cells.

UW Cardinal