Stem cell research using human stem cell research has been banned once again as an important United States of America election approaches. In a decision on Aug. 23, a United States of America district judge reinstated prohibitions on embryonic embryo. An executive order signed by Barack Obama permitting federal funds for embryonic stem cell research was challenged in court by researchers with support from Christian organizations. A ban initiated by George W. Bush in 2001 was suspended by Obama’s action. Since the ban was lifted progress had been made in research on diseases such as diabetes, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. That progress was stopped cold by the judge’s choice. Outrage was universal among scientists in the field. The administration is planning an appeal. The political utility of the stem cell issue is being evaluated by both parties.
Large leap backward for stem cell research
Federally-funded embryonic stem cell research underway in earnest. The scientific community felt ambushed upon hearing news that the ban had been renewed. Religious groups including Nightlight Christian Adoptions filed the lawsuit. A pair of researchers claimed that directing federal funds for embryonic stem cell research discriminated against scientists using adult stem cells. In an article published by United States News and World Report, a scientist said stem-cell research suffered a 10-year setback with the ruling. The renewal of the research ban has sinister implications, as outlined by Susan Solomon, CEO of the New York Stem-cell Foundation. She said the court ruling “allows a vocal minority to hold scientific disciplines hostage to a narrow political agenda”.
Politicians examine how you can exploit stem cell problem
The Justice Department said it will appeal the judge’s decision. The Wall Street Journal reports that supporters of embryonic stem cell research in Congress are exploring methods to maintain federal funding. Campaign managers are mulling over the political advantages the controversy may provide. A Republican strategist told the Journal that stem cell research might help motivate loyal anti-abortion voters, however jobs will get more attention. The issue could help Democrats, because embryonic stem-cell research is supported by a majority of Americans. The stem cell dustup may help President Obama as he works to frame the midterm elections as a choice between moving the country forward or backward.
Embryo and the law
The Justice Department said the administration would ask the district court to put its ruling on hold when the appeals court considers the issue. In a comment submitted on the United States News article, Marco Bolo of Colorado said that the judge based upon his order on a regulation banning federal funds for study using embryos that has been on the books since 1996. Bolo contends that Obama can’t overturn existing legislation and the judge is simply enforcing the regulation. To ensure that embryonic stem cell research continues is simple. The law must be changed.
Further reading
U.S. News and World Report
health.usnews.com
Wall Street Journal
wsj.com
