The stem cell debate-specifically the harvesting of embryonic stem cells through fertilized eggs-has been a heated battle involving scientists, the medical community, the religious right, and even, improbably, Michael J. Fox and Patricia Heaton. Which is what makes news of a possible alternative a huge development.

The Wall Street Journal is reporting that Dr. Shinya Yamanaka, a Kyoto-based orthopedic surgeon and stem cell scientist, claims to have discovered an innovative way to transform simple mature skin cells into faux embryonic stem cells, thereby bypassing any prickly moral issues. In the June issue of Nature, Dr. Yamanaka published a paper revealing an experiment he'd done on lab mice in which the addition of certain genes "reprogrammed" adult cells into their earlier embryonic state. In non-nerd terms, that's what we like to call a Huge Freakin' Deal.

Why? Firstly, these stem cells could one day be used to create viable organ tissue that could be used for transplants on human patients-no kidney dialysis, no mile-long waiting lists, and no Denny dying on "Grey's Anatomy." That outcome, however, is likely a long way off from occurring.

More immediately, the cells could also be used by drug companies as a way to test their medications for side effects without involving humans as guinea pigs. Dr. Yamanaka suggests that a drug company could create experiment-ready tissue simply by transforming skin samples provided by its employees. That development could spell safer medical testing and, potentially, more effective pharmaceutical drugs.

Though many will see his breakthrough as a middle ground that will appease both sides of this fiery stem cell debate, Dr. Yamanaka tells the Wall Street Journal that he "still supports research into embryonic stem cells derived from fertilized eggs as an alternative to his approach."

"If you ask me which is more important, a frozen embryo or a patient suffering from diabetes or Alzheimer's, it's clear to me that it's the patient," he said.

Tell us what you think about stem cell research in the comments section below. Does this sound like a satisfactory alternative?