Stem-Cell Flap in the Heartland

Supporters of stem-cell research lauded President Obama's announcement earlier this year to lift bans put in place by the Bush administration.

Some folks in Nebraska are saying no thanks. In a highly unusual move, the University of Nebraska's governing board today is voting on whether to restrict stem-cell research. The resolution, pushed by Nebraska Right to Life, would make the school the first university in the country to limit stem-cell research more than what federal and state laws allow. The group calls the use of stem cells "unethical medical research" and has threatened to take the issue to voters in a statewide ballot issue to make such research unconstitutional.

Stem-cell research potentially could lead to treatments for a number of diseases, proponents say. Menlo Park, California-based Geron Corp., for instance, is studying treatment for spinal-cord injury, heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis. Palo Alto, California-based Stem Cells Inc. targets diseases of the central nervous system and the liver.

Other researchers are looking at cures for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. There's much work left to be done at the university level—but perhaps not in the Cornhusker State.