Stem cell research advances

Whatever the political climate, embryonic stem cell research has weathered a tough year and come out on top. Biotechnology is a global business, and what can't be done in one house can easily move next door. Australia has opened up while Singapore [1], the U.K. and other countries are doing all they can to make researchers in the field feel welcome. South Korea had its international hoax [2], but other scientists in the field are quickly advancing there as well [3]. In the U.S., though, fresh funds are being made available in some states [4]. And private donors have come in with millions more to lift the long-delayed California program off the ground.

As the scientific evidence of efficacy grows, so will the demand to fund new research programs. The potential benefits are extraordinary, and many patients--including some well known celebrities [5]--are well aware that their best hopes for a cure lie in this field. But while embryonic stem cell research advances, let's not forget the promise of adult stem cell work [6] as well. New research is pointing to some very versatile types of adult stem cells. And research in cardiology will be putting some of the theories to a human test in the year ahead.