Stem cell research is considered to be controversial because scientists have to destroy human embryos. However, there is growing evidence to suggest that stem cell treatment will one day cure blindness along with almost every other disease you can think of. There are several clinical trials taking place in the US to assess how good stem cell treatment can be. Now, for the first time in Europe embryonic stem cell therapy for blindness in humans is being carried out. In December 2011, London’s Moorfields Eye Hospital started treatment on twelve patients suffering from Stargardt’s Macular Dystrophy, a major cause of blindness in young people. Stem cells are known as ‘master cells’ which can become every type of human cell in the body. Scientists believe they can one day provide promising treatment for every disease there is. These stem cells can replace and possibly regenerate diseased cells and tissue. But don’t get excited just yet. Unfortunately, medical science is a slow and arduous process. The procedure is complex, and measuring, monitoring and justifying for funding means finding a cure for some of the conditions which cause blindness is still a long way off. We are feeling a little optimistic however. After clinical trials in the US, the treatment seems to be safe and the advanced cell technology company conducting the research has said that patients undergoing stem cell treatment for incurable blindness (such as age related macular degeneration and Stargardt’s disease) are reported to have improved vision after treatment and have not experienced any serious side effects. So this ground breaking stem cell research continues. As does the battle with our conscience whether this is a morally correct thing to do. What do you think?