A new report by UC San Diego researchers indicates existing,
federally approved stem cell lines may be contaminated and unusable
for some purposes. While the implications are not fully known, this
highlights the need for expanded support of stem cell research.
The researchers found that animal-specific molecules had made
their way from the growth medium to the stem cells themselves.
Because these molecules are not found in humans, the study’s
authors are concerned an immune response could be generated.
Specifics aside, the new finding illustrates the ever-changing
nature of scientific research. It also illustrates why the federal
restriction of stem cell research was bound to cause problems and
limit the potential of continued experimentation.
The finding provides even more support for California’s
recently approved Proposition 71 ““ the initiative which will
provide $3 billion for stem cell research over the next decade.
Regardless of what happens at the federal level, the state’s
commitment to advancing this emerging science should attract the
best researchers and prove religiously based political restraints
are not conducive to scientific advancement.