JOHN LINDER: “In January of 2005 University of Florida scientist Michael Atkinson, a gene therapy advocate, said: "Two years ago, the…”

“In January of 2005 University of Florida scientist Michael Atkinson, a gene therapy advocate, said: "Two years ago, the embryonic stem cell field was hype, hype, hype. It is still that way in California, but I think that field has hit a bit of a wall." Why? Because after 25 years of animal research, embryonic stem cells have produced not one single instance of cure or even a palliative result. Not one. They have produced some results, though. Their versatility is now believed to be a disadvantage. As explained in a letter to Senator John Kerry, signed by 57 noted scientists in the fields of biology, microbiology, chemistry and medicine, they said: "Embryonic stem cells are difficult to develop into a stable cell line. They spontaneously accumulate genetic abnormalities in culture and are prone to uncontrollable growth and tumor formation when placed in animals." Why is this such an important issue for politicians? Why don't we pay some attention to what does work? Multipurpose adult progenitor cells have been or are being assessed in human trials for treatment of spinal cord injury, Parkinson's, stroke, cardiac damage, multiple sclerosis and more. These cells can be taken from the patient so they have no risk of rejection and no ethical problems. They are showing positive results in 72 different diseases, and I will submit that list for the Record.”