SAGINAW, Mich. -- Proposition 2 is a hot button topic in this years Michigan election as it centers on stem cell research.

Michael Krause died from a rare form of brain cancer at the age of 18. His mother Nancy hopes stem cell research in Michigan will help save the lives of other people who suffer from similar diseases.

Supporters and opponents of Prop 2 said their positions are pro-life. The Michigan Catholic Conference and Right to Life Michigan are campaigning hard against the proposal.

Opponents said passing the measure can open a “Pandora’s Box” of issues, but Nancy Krause and others who support the measure said the opponents are just using scare tactics.

Supporters of stem cell research have tried without success to get the legislature to act on bills that would encourage the research.

Until very recently, the technology to harvest stem cells only allowed for the cultivation of cells from human embryonic cells which required the destruction of the embryo to access the stem cells.

The destruction of the embryo is the primary reason many are against the proposition as they view all life to be precious.

Those on the pro-side of the debate believe excessively donated embryos used in in vitro fertilization could be used for research as they would otherwise be thrown away.

Stem cells can be grown into specialized cells which could aid doctors attempting to heal people suffering from specific medical conditions.