The First 100 Hours: Stem Cell Research

During the campaign, Democrats promised to use the first 100 hours of the new legislative season to make changes that they believe the American people want. Included on that list: funding for stem cell research.

In 2001, President Bush banned federal funding to new stem cell lines, meaning no new stem cells could be used for federally-funded research.

Democrats and some Republicans want to overturn the ban, and legislation to do so has been introduced in the House.

What is stem cell research?

Stem cell research is relatively new; only since 1998 have scientists been able to grow and isolate stem cells, which have the unique potential to develop into many different cell types in the body. When a stem cell divides, each "daughter" cell has the potential to either remain a stem cell or become another type of cell with a more specialized function. Stem cells, therefore, could serve as a repair system for tissues and organs, replenishing damaged or diseased cells, including red blood cells, brain cells, or muscle cells.

The most adaptable stem cells come from human embryos, and harvesting the cells always kills the days-old embryos, so some are opposed to the practice. The argument over stem cell research often mimics the abortion debate, centering on religious definitions about when human life begins.

However, not all stem cells are derived from embryos. Umbilical cord cells are adult cells that originate in the mother, but these cells are less adaptable.

New study

Opponents to embryonic stem cell research are bolstered by a new study that found that amniotic fluid taken during routine prenatal exams can provide stem cells that can be coaxed into bone, liver, and nerve cells. Opponents say that Congress should wait to see if amniotic stem cells are a viable (and less controversial) alternative. Proponents argue that legislation should not be sidelined because of a single study, especially since stem cells coming from adults have shown to be less promising than embryonic stem cells.

What would the legislation do?

The bill would overturn Bush’s 2001 ban on federal funding for new stem cell lines. The embryos would come from in vitro fertilization clinics that would otherwise destroy them, and donors would consent to their use.

But opponents say that it’s unethical to use embryos for scientific research. They consider frozen embryos to be individuals who need protection. Further, they say it’s unfair to require taxpayers to support such a debatable practice.

President Bush’s only veto has been to block stem cell legislation. Chances are, if Congress passes similar legislation, they’ll get a similar result -- a veto -- except this time, the Senate might have the two-thirds vote to overturn it.

What do you think?

Should Congress wait to find out more about amniotic stem cells? Are you in favor of removing the ban to federally fund embryonic stem cell research? If Congress passes the stem cell bill, should Bush vote his conscience and veto it?

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