新视野大学英语视听说教程 4 Unit 8-2

（单词翻译）

III. Listening In
Task 1: Stem Cell Research
Script
Gregory: The Republican party in America is opposing stem cell research. I find it
       hard to believe that in this day and age, someone would do that.
Lillian: Stem cell research sounds pretty impressive, I’ll admit. But just what is it?
Gregory: Well, a stem cell is a special type of cell. It is a general cell that, when it
       devides, can become any specific type of cell.
Lillian: You mean, a stem cell can become a heart cell? Or a brain or a kidney cell?
Gregory: That’s about it. Stem cells are a part of the body’s maintenance and repair
       system. When they divide, they can become any cell type.
Lillian: I guess there would be some tremendous medical advantages in that sort of
      research.
Gregory: You’ve said a mouthful. Recently, scientists were able to help a man who
       lost a jawbone for cancer. They recreated bone material for his jaw¹ from stem cells. What it means is that since the new bone was created out of the person’s own cells, there was no problem with rejection² because the DNA³ was the same.
Lillian: I bet the person was delighted. Why would anyone oppose that sort of research? It would seem to have endless potential to benefit the human race.
Gregory: I agree, but there are people who think we should not interfere⁴ with nature and manipulate “what is natural”.
Lillian: It’s easier to hold such a narrow view if you’re not in a position to need the benefits of the research. If you’re missing a jawbone because of cancer, you probably support the research.

1. What is the passage mainly about?
2. Who is against stem cell research?
3. What is special about a stem cell?
4. When can a stem cell become another cell type?
5. According to the passage, why do some people oppose stem cell research?
Keys: 1.B  2.A  3.A  4.A  5.D