“Stem cell research saved my life!” » For some, this is true, for others, it is a violation of morality. For many religious groups, this constitutes a highly controversial and unethical way for a scientist to commit murder in the name of science. On the contrary, for those who suffer from illnesses, it is a chance to have a new life. Scientists have come so far in recent decades in their research that if we stopped research into stem cell therapy now, it would weaken medical technology. It is very important that we find a middle ground for both sides of this controversial issue so that we can continue to explore healing options. Most wonder how regenerative stem therapies can help cure patients? Has Japanese scientist Haruko Obokata found the answer to ethical stem cell replication (Connor)? And how can religious communities be satisfied on this subject? Some will ask, “What are stem cells?” The lack of knowledge about this form of cell therapy explains why it is often misunderstood. In short, the historical timeline of stem cell research is very progressive. Since the early 1800s, stem cells were considered the building blocks of human life and were found to replicate other cells. Stem cell therapy is the process of regenerating human cells and restoring normal organ function (“regenerative”). Stem cell research dates back to the early 1920s. In 1928, doctors made several attempts to transplant fetal pancreas cells into diabetic patients, but research continued (Stem). According to the Harvard Stem Cell Institute, there are approximately 800 stem cell lines worldwide (Interlandi). Stem cells are classified based on their potential to differentiate into other cell types. The classifications are as follows: Totipotent - the capacity...... middle of paper ...... em cell basics: Introduction. NIH. National Institutes of Health, US Department of Health and Human Services, 2002. Web. February 12, 2014. Watson, Stephanie and Craig Freudenrich. “Stem cell controversy.” How stem cells work. Discovery and Web. February 12, 2014. Murnaghan, Ian. “History of Stem Cell Research.” Explore stem cells. MSC, 2014. Web. February 12, 2014. “Regenerative medicine. » Advancing transfusion and cellular therapies around the world. AABB, 2014. Web. February 19, 2014. Interlandi, Jeneen. “Getting it right on stem cells. » Scientific American. Np, October 1, 2010. Web. February 23, 2014. “Patient Testimonials: Hope for Stem Cell Research.” » California Stem Cell Agency. CIRM, nd Web. February 23, 2014. “FRC: Commends California and Maryland for Shifting Focus on Ethical Stem Cell Research.” » PRNEWSWIRE.PR News wire Association, LLC, 2014. Web. February 24 2014.