Stem cell research is a God–pleasing matter
The Vatican will finance the promotion of stem cell researchCopper news
The American company NeoStem has signed an unprecedented contract in the field of research of stem cells obtained from adults. Her partner was the Catholic Church, known for its cautious attitude to such research, writes the Los Angeles Times (Vatican signs deal to collaborate on adult stem cell research).
As you know, the church has always been against the study and use of embryonic stem cells for the same reason that it fights abortion: both of these areas are associated with the destruction of embryos, which, from the point of view of priests, are living human beings. The Church continues to adhere to this position, but it is more loyal to the study of adult stem cells.
The head of the Department of Science and theology of the Pontifical Council for Culture, Tomasz Trafny, said that the Catholic Church had never concluded such agreements before. According to him, there are two reasons for signing the current contract.
"Firstly, [NeoStem] is extremely interested in understanding the cultural implications of her work, which is very unusual. Many companies are looking for benefits, and only benefits. And secondly, they share our sensitivity to moral and ethical issues. Due to such an ethical position, we have entered into such a unique cooperation," Trafny explained.
For the company, according to its owner and CEO Robin Smith, the contract became "a sign of approval from the Vatican."
At the same time, the church does not invest directly in NeoStem. Their interaction concerns mainly the non-profit Stem for Life Foundation founded by the company.
The main activity of the Vatican in the framework of cooperation will be to attract donations, launch educational campaigns, participate in research and sponsor a joint conference, which the new partners will organize in November in Rome to attract the world's leading experts on adult stem cells.
Portal "Eternal youth" http://vechnayamolodost.ru20.10.2011