Local firm details stem cell advance

August 20, 2007

A local biotechnology start-up says it has crossed a major hurdle in embryonic stem cells research by growing the cells directly from unfertilized human eggs.

If confirmed, the advance could lead to a host of medical advances and at the same time defuse a bitter debate on the ethics of this controversial technology.

Because the egg cells were never fertilized, there was no conception and thus no embryo, according to Jeff Krstich, president and chief executive of International Stem Cell Corp. Critics have opposed use of embryonic stems cells, arguing that such research destroys human life.

However, research with the Oceanside-based company’s stem cells should meet President Bush’s requirements for federal funding, Krstich said. The president has banned the use of federal money for research on stem cells created after August of 2001. (North County Times)