The South Korean Woo-Suk Hwang intends to establish the database to promote research that will allow growing genetically adapted organs and tissues for patients
The pioneer of cloning, the South Korean scientist Woo-seok Hwang declares today that he intends to open a global database of embryonic stem cells in his country. The purpose of the database is to accelerate research in the field of growing replacement tissues using patients' stem cells.
Hwang explains that the database will bring together the arrays of stem cells found today in one place, thus making it possible to identify the stem cells adapted to the patients' immune systems and treat their diseases.
In an interview with the AP news agency, Hwang says that he and his people hope to open the reservoir this year. "We will start with what we have and offer the contents of our reservoir to those patients who are really interested in the stem cells for good reasons," notes Hwang.
According to Hwang, he agrees to eventually transfer the repository to the management of an international agency. "However, this means that South Korea is taking the initiative in treating human diseases," he adds.
Wang and his research team shocked the world last year when they cloned a human embryo. Last month, his team at Seoul National University created the first embryonic stem cells, genetically adapted to an injured or sick patient.
The meaning of these adjustments is that it will be possible to reduce the rejection of transplanted organs by the body's immune systems. The researchers hope that the cells will make it possible to repair damage as a result of problems such as spinal cord injury, diabetes, or genetic diseases. Hwang is now interested in directing his research towards achieving the ability to induce embryonic stem cells to become specific organs and tissues.
Hwang's work is opposed by many, including US President George Bush, who claims that destroying the fetus is equivalent to taking life. Bush banned federal funding for embryonic stem cell research, except in a very limited number of cases. Hwang rejects the criticism of him and claims that he does not produce embryos, because he has no intention of producing life. He adds in relation to the allegations directed against him, that "he is a scientist and not a politician". "Our ultimate goal is to allow those suffering from incurable diseases to lead a normal social life, and to allow them the human right to happiness."
