New Stem-Cell Methods Fall Short

Headlines this week trumpeted a possible solution to the embryonic stem-cell research conundrum. Scientists obtained the cells without destroying embryos, which is the sticking point for most people who oppose the research.

But that point is still stuck, according to religious leaders and other watchdog groups. They say the two methods described in the Oct. 16 issue of the journal Nature are not a clear solution to the ethical conundrum.

"Seeking alternative ways to obtain pluripotent stem cells without creating or harming embryos is certainly a good idea, but it's not clear that either of these approaches fills the bill," said Richard Doerflinger, deputy director of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops' Secretariat for Pro-Life Activities.

An author of one of the papers says he wasn't trying to replace methods that are offensive to some because they destroy embryos, but to keep the research moving forward as quickly as possible.

Most people have friends or relatives who suffer from diseases like diabetes or heart disease that could one day be treatable using stem cells, said Dr. Robert Lanza, vice...