RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Human embryonic stem cells and respect for life JF Journal of Medical Ethics JO J Med Ethics FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd and Institute of Medical Ethics SP 166 OP 170 DO 10.1136/jme.26.3.166 VO 26 IS 3 A1 Meyer, John R YR 2000 UL http://jme.bmj.com/content/26/3/166.abstract AB The purpose of this essay is to stimulate academic discussion about the ethical justification of using human primordial stem cells for tissue transplantation, cell replacement, and gene therapy. There are intriguing alternatives to using embryos obtained from elective abortions and in vitro fertilisation to reconstitute damaged or dysfunctional human organs. These include the expansion and transplantation of latent adult progenitor cells.