In the lab   
   
    Stem-cell research has people divided on a number of moral levels, but is there anyone that questions the good that can be done from stem-cell research and the number of possibilities for the future stem-cells present?
    Scarborough should be proud to have a facility like the Maine Medical Center Research Institute in town. In our own backyard, scientists are performing studies that might hold the answer to what seems like an unlimited number of medical questions.
    While a great deal of research is being done at MMCRI in general, many scientists there are focusing solely on the potential of stem-cells. Our interview subject this week, Dr. Kenneth Ault, is overseeing the research.
    Much of the debate around stem-cells focuses on the ones that come from embryos. There are some that believe that taking stem-cells from frozen embryos is destroying a potential life. There is also fierce debate over the use of stem-cells that come from abortions. While people are certainly entitled to their beliefs, these arguments focus more on morality than on science and potential.
    Scientists are working on new methods that could be able to take stem-cells from embryos without harming them in any way. Science is funny that way – if it is given the chance to, new and more effective methods will be found and put into use. That would be a great way to move forward, but scientists also need to do their work now.
    I have been to MMCRI a number of times and can say that they work they do there is relevant and should be given the full amount of support. They are not like Dr. Frankenstein, with crazed and harmful theories, they are out to advance science and do some good.