CGS : Stem Cell Research

About Stem Cell Research

Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that can develop into specialized tissue types. Researchers are investigating how to isolate and culture them, and control their differentiation, in the hope that they can be used to treat and understand a variety of diseases.

Stem cells can be derived from a number of cellular sources: adult, fetal, and placental tissues; umbilical cord blood; and embryos. Stem cells from these different sources have different properties.

Adult stem cells can be obtained from the bodies of adults and children, and until recently considered multipotent, which means that particular adult stem cells can develop into specific tissue types. Adult stem cells have been used in therapies such as bone marrow transplants for years.

Embryonic stem cells are found in early embryos. They are pluripotent, which means they can develop into all tissue types and be cultured as stem cell "lines." No therapies have been developed from human embryonic stem cells, which were first isolated in 1998.

In recent years, new methods of cellular reprogramming have enabled the derivation of so-called induced pluripitent stem (iPS) cells, which seem to have the full powers of embryonic stem cells but are from adult body cells.

Human embryonic stem cell research is controversial because it destroys embryos. Most investigations use embryos created but not used for in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. Some scientists have worked to derive human embryonic stem cells using a cloning technique called research cloning, which raises a separate set of troubling questions.

Cloning, Stem Cells Long Mired In Legislative Gridlock[Quotes CGS's Marcy Darnovsky]by Julie Rovner, NPRMay 16th, 2013The news that U.S. scientists have successfully cloned a human embryo seems almost certain to rekindle a political fight that has raged, on and off, since the announcement of the creation of Dolly the sheep in 1997.

US Scientists With Cloning Techniques Created Human Embryonic Stem Cells[Quotes CGS's Marcy Darnovsky]MercoPressMay 16th, 2013Stem cells have been a research focus for more than a decade because they can morph into any type of cell, potentially leading to treatments to replace damaged cells and organs. But along with the promise of the technology has come ethical questions and worry over human clones.

Scientists Create Human Stem Cells Through Cloningby Sharon Begley, ReutersMay 15th, 2013After more than 15 years of failures by scientists around the world and one outright fraud, biologists have finally created human stem cells by the same technique that produced Dolly the cloned sheep.

Stem Cells Recovered From Cloned Human Embryos[Quotes CGS's Marcy Darnovsky]by Malcolm Ritter, Associated PressMay 15th, 2013One expert called the work a landmark, but noted that a different, simpler technique now under development may prove more useful.

Precision StemCell: Selling Stem Cells & Treating Individuals With ALS as Human Guinea Pigsby Leigh Turner, Health in the Global VillageMay 6th, 2013Unproven stem cell interventions offered internationally tend to gain media attention, but Precision StemCell, based in Alabama, is one example of a domestic clinic marketing stem cell interventions that appear to violate federal regulations.

California Lawmakers Consider Paying Women to Provide Eggs for Researchby Diane Tober, Biopolitical TimesMay 2nd, 2013A new bill claims to be motivated by concerns for women’s equity and for advancing responsible medical research, but in fact undermines both.

As iPS Cell Studies in Humans Approach, Accessible Relevant Pre-Clinical Data Remains Minimalby Paul Knoepfler, Knoepfler Lab Stem Cell BlogApril 19th, 2013We all want to get stem cell-based medicines to patients who need them as soon as possible, but there is such a thing as moving too quickly.

Which Comes First: The Woman or Her Eggs? [Quotes CGS's Marcy Darnovsky]by Ruha Benjamin, Huffington PostApril 17th, 2013If we're going to support a "right to stem cell research," then we need to guarantee a right to health in the form of serious investment in egg donor safety.

Should researchers pay for women's eggs?[Op-Ed]by Ruha Benjamin, San Francisco ChronicleApril 4th, 2013Could compensation induce women of modest means to undergo the risks of egg extraction?

Stem-Cell Ruling Riles Researchersby Alison Abbott, NatureMarch 26th, 2013The Italian health minister’s support for an unproven stem cell treatment appalls the country’s scientists.

UCSF Discovery a Potential "Earthquake" for Stem Cell Therapiesby Ron Leuty, San Francisco Business TimesMarch 4th, 2013A new type of stem cell may open new possibilities for fixing damaged parts of the body.

Stem Cells Cruise to Clinicby David Cyranoski, NatureFebruary 27th, 2013A Japanese researcher is seeking approval for the first clinical study of induced pluripotent stem cells.

Critiquing the Stem Cell Board[Editorial]Los Angeles TimesFebruary 27th, 2013California's stem cell institute is finally making some changes, but the modifications are more a bandage than a cure. Like a bandage, they will probably do, but only for a limited time.

Billionaires Anoint Biogeeksby Matthew Herper, ForbesFebruary 20th, 2013A group of Silicon Valley billionaires announced awards of $3 million to each of eleven recipients, in the first round of their "Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences."

Embryo-Like Stem Cells Enter First Human Trialby David Cyranoski, NatureFebruary 14th, 2013The clinical study in Japan will be the first to put induced pluripotent stem cells into humans.

Stem Cells in Texas: Cowboy Cultureby David Cyranoski, NatureFebruary 13th, 2013By offering unproven therapies, a Texas biotechnology firm has sparked a bitter debate about how stem cells should be regulated.

Did Sperm and Egg Donors Unwittingly Contribute to NIH-Approved Stem Cells?by Jocelyn Kaiser, ScienceInsiderFebruary 7th, 2013A review of the human embryonic stem cell lines approved by the National Institutes of Health has found that some of the cells may have come from sperm or egg donors who didn't consent to having their cells used in research.

Scientists Use 3-D Printer to Speed Human Embryonic Stem Cell Researchby Larry Greenemeier, Scientific AmericanFebruary 4th, 2013A team of scientists reports a breakthrough in 3-D printing using human embryonic stem cells that could purportedly lead to life-like bioengineered tissue and, eventually, artificial organs tailor-made for specific patients.

Controversial Stem-Cell Company Moves Treatment Out of the United StatesCelltex to send patients to Mexico.by David Cyranoski, NatureJanuary 30th, 2013Celltex Therapeutics will now follow in the footsteps of many other companies offering unproven stem-cell therapies and send its patients abroad for treatment.

State Stem Cell Agency Endorses Conflict Guidelinesby Bradley Fikes, UT San DiegoJanuary 23rd, 2013California’s $3 billion state stem agency voted Wednesday to accept in concept proposed changes to reduce conflicts of interest on the agency's governing committee.

A Dangerous Game: Some Athletes Risk Untested Stem Cell Treatments by Deborah Franklin, Scientific AmericanJanuary 16th, 2013Some professional athletes' enthusiasm for certain stem cell treatments outpaces the evidence.

Moore is LessWhy the Development of Pluripotent Stem Cells Might Lead Us to Rethink Differential Property Interests in Excised Human Cellsby Osagie K. Obasogie and Helen Theung, Stanford Technology Law ReviewJanuary 15th, 2013A proposal for addressing the profound legal issues raised by induced pluripotent stem cells.

Safety of Induced Stem Cells Gets a Boostby Monya Baker, NatureJanuary 9th, 2013A new paper could renew hopes of turning a patient’s own cells into perfectly matched replacement tissues, though differences in methodology between the study and clinical practice have left some eager for more proof.

Stem Cell Research Center Needs Overhaul, IOM Panel Says[Quotes CGS's Marcy Darnovsky]by Marcia Frellick, American Medical NewsJanuary 8th, 2013A report says board members must be free of personal and professional conflicts of interest. It also calls for an external scientific advisory board.

Stem Cell Lawsuit Finally Overby Jocelyn Kaiser, Science InsiderJanuary 7th, 2013The Supreme Court has rejected a request to ban federally funded research on human embryonic stem cells, bringing an end to a long legal battle.

RNL Bio Smuggled Out Stem Cellsby Yun Suh-young, The Korea TimesJanuary 3rd, 2013RNL Bio sent 15.5 billion won worth of stem cells to hospitals in China and Japan on 860 different occasions from November 2008 through July 2012 without reporting the shipments.

Stem Cell Showdown: Celltex vs. the FDAby Susan Berfield, Bloomberg BusinessweekJanuary 3rd, 2013The FDA has approved only one stem cell product and wrote a scathing report on Celltex, the Texan company that nonetheless continues to offer its controversial services.

Desperate Patients Seek Stem-Cell 'Miracle,' but Scientists Warn of Hidden Dangersby Marcia Heroux Pounds, Sun SentinelJanuary 3rd, 2013The recent World Stem Cell Summit pointed to reports of deaths, tumors, lumbar punctures and other potential harm, as well as vulnerable people being conned out of thousands of dollars.

Genes, Cells and Brains by Hilary Rose and Steven Rose - Reviewby Steven Poole, The Guardian (UK)December 19th, 2012A fascinating, lucid and angry book; a strong exposé of the hype surrounding genetics and neuroscience.

In the Flesh: The Embedded Dangers of Untested Stem Cell Cosmetics by Ferris Jabr, Scientific AmericanDecember 17th, 2012Unapproved procedures and skin care products endanger consumers and researchers hoping to conduct clinical trials for promising stem cell medicine.

Universities with Connections Win Most Stem Cell Money[Quotes CGS's Marcy Darnovsky]by Melody Petersen, The Orange County RegisterDecember 14th, 2012Repeated independent reviews of the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine have found that its board is rife with conflicts of interest.

Review: Bioethics: All That Matters by Donna Dickensonby Gina Maranto, Biopolitical Times guest contributorDecember 13th, 2012This lively and accessible guide to the ethical implications of biotechnology asks how the field promotes or undermines social equality.

Is California's Stem Cell Program Preparing to Waste $700,000?by Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles TimesDecember 12th, 2012The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine formally received the Institute of Medicine's review report at its meeting today; several board members showed overt hostility to the panel's recommendations.

IOM Proposals for Overhaul at CIRM Win High Marks [Quotes CGS's Marcy Darnovsky]by David Jensen, California Stem Cell ReportDecember 7th, 2012Independent observers gave generally high marks to the Institute of Medicine's recommendations for major changes at the California stem cell agency.

Public Expectations and Reality of Stem Cell Therapies Translationby Alexey Bersenev, Cell TrialsDecember 7th, 2012A just-published study indicates that public optimism about stem cell research and translation is largely unjustified and even delusional.

Report recommends changes to California stem cell agency's board, goals[Quotes CGS's Marcy Darnovsky]by Ron Leuty, San Francisco Business TimesDecember 6th, 2012"If CIRM acquires new funds from industry sources or venture firms, it must recognize that it has ongoing obligations to the people of California."

Report says California’s taxpayer-funded stem cell agency needs a reorganization[Quotes CGS's Marcy Darnovsky]by Alicia Chang, Associated Press, Washington PostDecember 6th, 2012“CIRM has not responded in a meaningful way to many previous public interest suggestions or to independent reviews. We hope the agency will not continue that pattern.”

Center for Genetics and Society applauds recommendations for improvements in oversight and governance of California stem cell agency; calls for additional changes[Press statement]December 6th, 2012Given the state’s budgetary problems and CIRM's shortcomings, it would be wrong to ask Californians to give it more public money.

IOM Recommends Sweeping Changes at California Stem Cell Agencyby David Jensen, California Stem Cell ReportDecember 6th, 2012A study by the Institute of Medicine recommended sweeping changes at CIRM to remove conflict of interest problems, clean up a troubling dual-executive arrangement and fundamentally change the nature of the governing board.

Professors Critique Stem Cell Medical Tourism by Steven S. Lee, The Harvard CrimsonNovember 29th, 2012A panel at the Harvard Law School discussed the ethics of the use of embryonic stem cells in the United States, critiquing its role in medical tourism and the lack of research to back up its claims.

Doctors Guilty in Stem Cell Fraud Caseby Nathan Baca, KLAS-TV Las VegasNovember 28th, 2012A federal court found two Las Vegas doctors guilty on all counts of defrauding patients with bogus experimental stem cell treatments.

Pluristem: Second Patient With ‘Life-Saving’ Cells Died by David Wainer, Business WeekNovember 9th, 2012The "compassionate use" of experimental stem cell therapies is thrown into question as the death of the second of three patients is announced.

What Does It Mean When Athletes Get 'Stem Cell Therapy'?by Timothy Caulfield, The AtlanticOctober 22nd, 2012Media cheerleading is misleadingly legitimizing the booming "stem cell tourism" industry.

Stem Cell Controversy #1: Celltex and the FDAby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesOctober 18th, 2012The FDA has warned Texas stem-cell treatment company Celltex, and the review board that approved its activities, that the company is illegally selling an unlicensed drug and violates good manufacturing practices.

Stem Cell Controversies #2, #3, and #4: Some Careers (But Not All) Seem to Be Immortalby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesOctober 18th, 2012Michael West and Thomas Okarma want to take back Geron; Glenn McGee seems to have moved to Europe; and a Japanese fraud's career is over.

Research Firm Reaped Stem Cell Funds Despite Panel's Adviceby Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles TimesOctober 17th, 2012StemCells Inc. has had rather a charmed relationship with California's publicly funded stem cell program, with some $40 million in awards approved this year.

Stem-Cell Fraud Hits Febrile Fieldby David Cyranoski, NatureOctober 16th, 2012As Hisashi Moriguchi's heart-treatment claims collapse, observers warn about the febrile nature of the iPS-cell field and caution against a rush to the clinic.

FDA Issues Warning to Sugar Land Stem Cell Companyby Todd Ackerman, The Houston ChronicleOctober 16th, 2012The Food and Drug Administration has informed the Texas company involved in Gov. Rick Perry's adult stem-cell procedure that it is illegally marketing an unlicensed drug.

Neural Stem Cells Successfully Implanted into the Brains of Four Boysby Jon Bardin, Los Angeles TimesOctober 12th, 2012Scientists have performed the first successful neural stem cell transplant into the brains of four boys with Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease.

The HealerHow Shinya Yamanaka Transformed the Stem-Cell War and Made Everyone a Winnerby William Saletan, SlateOctober 9th, 2012Shinya Yamanaka's research on "induced pluripotent stem cells" earned him a Nobel Prize. But much of the media coverage missed half the story. Yamanaka’s venture wasn’t just an experiment. It was a moral project.

Japan Team Offers Fertility Hope with Stem Cell Eggsby Harumi Ozawa, Jakarta GlobeOctober 6th, 2012Japanese scientists create mice using artificial eggs created from "normal" adult cells.

Stem Cell Cash Mostly Aids Directors' Interestsby David Jensen, The Sacramento BeeSeptember 23rd, 2012The California stem cell agency's fresh set of funding awards renews debate about conflicts of interest.

A First: Organs Tailor-Made With Body’s Own Cellsby Henry Fountain, New York TimesSeptember 15th, 2012Swedish doctors replace a man's cancerous windpipe with a new one made from plastic and his own stem cells.

Sperm Precursor Cells Created in Labby Michael Cook, BioEdgeSeptember 7th, 2012Scientists may soon be able to create artificial sperm from a skin cell. Proponents extol benefits for sterile men; opponents warn of future obsolescence of males.

US Stem Cell Scientist Punished for Fraudby Michael Cook, BioEdgeSeptember 7th, 2012A Harvard University researcher was recently disciplined by the Department of Health and Human Services for using images from other publications as her own.

A Legal Win for Stem Cell Research, but Case May Not Be Overby Jocelyn Kaiser, ScienceAugust 24th, 2012A U.S. appeals court today upheld the legality of federally funded research on human embryonic stem cells — the latest in a string of wins for the National Institutes of Health.

Undetectable Stem Cell Treatment Could be the Wave of the Performance-Enhancement Futureby Eric Adelson, Yahoo NewsAugust 24th, 2012Sports science is on the precipice of a potentially new era of performance enhancement: stem cell therapy, which could soon make testosterone injections as ancient as the typewriter.

Stem Cells: A Culture War Gone Quiet by Alex Seitz-Wald, SalonAugust 23rd, 2012The GOP is so against stem-cell research that it's in the party platform. So why won't Republicans talk about it?

Ruling Frees FDA to Crack Down on Stem Cell Clinicsby Peter Aldhous, NewScientist.comJuly 25th, 2012It's official: stem cells are drugs. The US district court has ruled that the FDA has the authority to regulate clinics offering controversial stem cell therapies.

Patients Seek Stem-Cell Compensationby David Cyranoski, Nature NewsJuly 6th, 2012Six patients in California are suing RNL Bio, one of the world’s largest stem-cell companies, for allegedly misleading them about the effectiveness of its stem-cell treatments.

Should People be Allowed To Sell Their Organs?by Alice Park, Time / CNNJuly 3rd, 2012A U.S. Appeals Court has allowed donors to sell their bone marrow for up to $3,000. Could organs and other body parts soon carry a price tag as well?

How to Tell When A Drug Company Fibs About Clinical Trial Resultsby Adam Feuerstein, The StreetJuly 3rd, 2012Osiris Therapeutics "disappeared" important data when it announced results of a study of a stem cell therapy in heart attack patients.

Will the FDA Close Down Celltex? by Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesJune 28th, 2012An FDA report itemizes 79 specific problems with the Texas stem-cell company Celltex, and more trouble may be on the way.

FDA Report Faults Houston Stem-Cell Companyby Todd Ackerman, Houston ChronicleJune 26th, 2012The company involved in Gov. Rick Perry's unlicensed adult stem-cell procedure is rife with basic manufacturing problems, according to the US Food and Drug Administration.

Informed Consent: A Broken Contractby Erika Check Hayden, Nature NewsJune 20th, 2012As large-scale genetic research has become faster and cheaper, more and more personal genetic data collected for one purpose ends up being used for another.

More Scandals in South Koreaby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesJune 8th, 2012Fresh accusations of stem-cell fraud, whose full extent is yet unknown, are rocking South Korea and threatening to damage the nation's reputation again.

Seoul National University Professor Suspected of Stem Cell Study Fabricationby Yi Whan-woo, The Korea TimesMay 29th, 2012A stem cell researcher in Korea is suspected of fabricating over a dozen studies submitted to academic journals.

In the News: Stem Cell Cash Will Run Out – Then What?by David Jensen, The Sacramento BeeMay 20th, 2012Prop. 71 has previously provided a direct stream of state bond cash, but what will happen when, in about five years, the state stops borrowing money to finance stem cell research?

California Considers DNA Privacy Lawby Helen Shen, NatureMay 18th, 2012California lawmakers are considering a bill that would require written consent for the collection, retention, and sharing of individual genetic information. Academic researchers fear the measures would prohibit work with genetic databases.

Bioeconomy in South Korea, Again by Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesMay 15th, 2012South Korea is investing in the bioeconomy again, despite the scandals of the last decade.

South Korea Steps Up Stem-Cell Work by Soo Bin Park, Nature NewsMay 1st, 2012In South Korea, regenerative medicine gets a cash boost. Some say stricter regulations are needed to ensure safety.

The Texas Two-Step: New State Regs Allow Stem Cell Companies to Circumvent FDA Evaluations by Daniel Sharp, Biopolical TimesApril 19th, 2012New regulations in Texas allow stem cell corporations to circumvent FDA review, raising concerns for health and safety.

Texas Board Approves Rules on Use of Stem Cellsby Minjae Park, New York TimesApril 13th, 2012Amidst criticism, Texas approves controversial regulations for adult stem cells.

Critics of California Stem-Cell Agency Address Institute of Medicine Panel[Quote's CGS's Marcy Darnovsky]by Erika Check Hayden, Nature News BlogApril 13th, 2012Speakers raised concerns about built-in conflicts of interest, oversight by elected officials, and unfulfilled promises to voters.

Texas Accused of Ignoring FDA on Stem Cell Rulesby Todd Ackerman, Houston ChronicleApril 10th, 2012Texas' new adult stem cell regulations have drawn criticism for circumventing FDA standards and making questionable practices commercially available.

Statement to Institute of Medicine Committee on the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine by Marcy DarnovskyApril 10th, 2012Marcy Darnovsky of the Center for Genetics and Society made this statement before the Institute of Medicine Committee regarding CIRM's funding and governance structure.

At a Crossroads, California’s Stem Cell Agency Ponders a Future Without Taxpayer Support[Quotes CGS's Marcy Darnovsky]by Alicia Chang, Washington PostMarch 18th, 2012Eight years have passed since the creation of California's stem cell agency, and the legacy CIRM will leave remains unclear.

FDA Receives Complaint About Houston Company that Stored Gov. Perry's Stem Cellsby Todd Ackerman, Houston ChronicleMarch 14th, 2012Is the stem cell company involved in Rick Perry's unregulated adult stem-cell operation a potential danger to patients, and not in compliance with federal law?

Texas Family Turned to Bonita Stem Cell Doctor, but 5-Year-Old Died Before 'Miracle' by Liz Freeman, Naples NewsMarch 3rd, 2012Parents put their trust in experimental stem cell treatments that the Food and Drug Administration has not approved.

Stem Cell Fraud Is the Real Issue in Texasby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesMarch 2nd, 2012Bioethicist Glenn McGee has resigned from Celltex. His connection with the controversial stem-cell company has raised important issues about its business practices.

Controversial Bioethicist Quits Stem-Cell Companyby David Cyranoski, Nature News BlogMarch 1st, 2012In an announcement on his Twitter page, bioethicist Glenn McGee resigned his position at Celltex Therapeutics after a turbulent three months.

Editor’s Move Sparks Backlashby David Cyranoski, Nature NewsFebruary 21st, 2012Bioethicists are forced to consider their own ethics as a prominent figure in the field joins a controversial stem cell company.

Rick Perry, Glenn McGee and Selling Texas Stem Cellsby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesFebruary 16th, 2012Gov. Perry is actively promoting an industry based on adult stem cells, in which Glenn McGee, until recently editor of the American Journal of Bioethics, is now employed.

Stem Cell Banking: The Newest Lure in Medical TourismArab princes and U.S. celebrities fly in for futuristic bio-care at Seoul "Life Center" by Frances Cha, CNNFebruary 2nd, 2012In a new form of medical tourism, people from around the world are traveling to Seoul for stem cell treatments and to bank their stem cells, hoping that this will one day save their lives.

Gingrich Vows to Ban Embryonic Stem-Cell Research, Questions In Vitro Practicesby Karen Tumulty, Washington PostJanuary 29th, 2012Gingrich makes clear that, if elected, he would ban embryonic stem-cell research.

ACT Publishes First, Tentative Results of Embryonic Stem Cell Trialby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesJanuary 25th, 2012Advanced Cell Technology released very limited but mildly promising preliminary results of its clinical trial, and convinced some, though not all, reporters to hype it.

California’s Stem Cell Agency “Stacks the Deck” at a Key Hearing by Marcy Darnovsky, Biopolitical TimesJanuary 24th, 2012A meaningful review of the stem cell program by the Institute of Medicine could make an important contribution to needed changes at the agency.

Stacking the Deck on the Stem-Cell Programby Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles TimesJanuary 21st, 2012The Institute of Medicine is poised to receive a one-sided picture of California's stem-cell program in their upcoming review.

S. Korea Approves Sales of New Stem Cell Drugby Associated Foreign Press, Mysinchew.com January 19th, 2012South Korea's government drug agency cleared the way for commercial sales of what it called the world's first approved medicine using stem cells, developed from newborns' cord blood.

60 Minutes Exposes Stem Cell Scams — Againby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesJanuary 10th, 2012For the second time in two years, 60 Minutes exposes a stem-cell scam and stresses that these are not isolated instances.

Stem Cell Fraud: A 60 Minutes Investigationby Scott Pelley, 60 MinutesJanuary 8th, 2012The Internet is full of websites selling unproven stem cell treatments for incurable illnesses. Correspondent Scott Pelley investigates.

Chimeric Monkeys Born in Stem Cell Studyby Dan Vergano, USA TodayJanuary 5th, 2012Biologists report the first monkey "chimeras," born from mixtures of very-early stage embryonic cells.

Stem cell research on donor eggs often not disclosedby Frederik Joelving, Reuters HealthJanuary 3rd, 2012Many U.S. fertility clinics don't tell egg donors that embryos made from their eggs may end up being used in stem cell research, according to a new government survey.

American Scientist Arrested in Stem-Cell Clinic Stingby Ewen Callaway, Nature News BlogDecember 29th, 2011An American university scientist was arrested on 27 December, accused of supplying stem cells for use in unapproved therapies.

Mercury News editorial: Stem-Cell Institute Should Take a Bow (Out)by Mercury News Editorial, San Jose Mercury NewsDecember 17th, 2011It would be wrong to ask for more public financing from California.

Stem Cell Study: Govt Wants to Draw Ethical Lineby Durgesh Nandan Jha, Times of IndiaDecember 16th, 2011The Indian Council of Medical Research, in collaboration with the Department of Biotechnology, is seeking public opinion on gamete and embryo donation for stem cell research.

Ethics Concerns about Geron's Exit from the Stem Cell Businessby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesDecember 15th, 2011Some stem-cell scientists and bioethicists are critical of Geron's early termination of a clinical trial and willingness to include one last patient.

Hoping for Cures, Supporters May Back Another Ballot Measure for Stem Cell Agencyby Steve Johnson, San Jose Mercury NewsDecember 8th, 2011California's $3 billion taxpayer-financed stem cell agency still has no treatments on the market and is now at a critical juncture that could determine how much longer it stays in operation.

California Stem Cell Agency Needs to Study Itself[Quotes CGS's Marcy Darnovsky]by Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles TimesDecember 7th, 2011The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine has downplayed the recent exit from the stem cell field by Geron, but the fiasco raises questions about how the agency does business.

Court Says Some Donors of Stem Cells Can Be Paidby Andrew Pollack, New York TimesDecember 1st, 2011An appeals court says a law prohibiting payment for donated organs did not apply to stem cells extracted from circulating blood.

Cloning Technology: Control the Bonanza for Research Eggs[Letter to the editor]by Marcy Darnovsky, Susan Berke Fogel, Judy Norsigian, NatureDecember 1st, 2011The demand for women’s eggs for research could soar alarmingly following a report of a new cloning technique.

Economics, Not Science, Thwarts Embryonic Stem Cell Therapyby Eryn Brown, Los Angeles TimesNovember 21st, 2011Geron Corporation has pulled the plug on its ambitious effort to reverse spinal damage and will focus instead on financially less risky cancer drugs.

The Economics of Stem Cell Research[audio; quotes Marcy Darnovsky]by Stephanie O'Neill, The Madeleine Brand ShowNovember 16th, 2011What role did exaggerated promises play in the decision?

Geron Quits the Embryonic Stem Cell Industryby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesNovember 16th, 2011Geron has cancelled its clinical trial of a stem-cell treatment for spinal cord injuries, raising questions about the future of the company and the industry.

First Test of Human Embryonic Stem Cell Therapy in People Discontinuedby Rob Stein, The Washington PostNovember 14th, 2011Geron, the company conducting the first FDA-approved clinical trial of human embryonic stem cells, abruptly announced that it was halting the study.

Oregon Health & Science University wins breakthrough stem-cell patent; ethics of cloning debatedby Nick Budnick, The OregonianNovember 2nd, 2011Over the long-term, observers say, it could lead to the genetic engineering of human beings. But OHSU's announcement yesterday focused on short-term health gains.

European Court of Justice: No Patents on Human Embryonic Stem Cells by Marcy Darnovsky, Biopolitical TimesOctober 27th, 2011Greenpeace applauds the decision for limiting commercialization of the human body; a stem cell patent holder warns of disaster; a patent lawyer says the ruling may in fact encourage research.

Hwang Clones Coyotes, Scores Headlinesby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesOctober 19th, 2011Disgraced South Korean scientist Hwang Woo-Suk continues his efforts at rehabilitation by cloning endangered coyotes.

EU court: No patents for some stem cell techniquesby Maria Cheng, Bloomberg BusinessweekOctober 18th, 2011The European Union's top court ruled Tuesday that scientists cannot patent stem cell techniques that use human embryos.

Gene therapy and stem cells uniteby James Gallagher, BBC NewsTwo of the holy grails of medicine - stem cell technology and precision gene therapy - have been united for the first time in humans, say scientists.

More on Cash for Eggsby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesOctober 13th, 2011The Nuffield Council on Bioethics has issued a report about the provision of human bodily material for medicine and for research, including the issue of payment for gametes.

A Campaign to Allow a Market in Women's Eggs for a New Kind of Cloning Researchby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesOctober 7th, 2011An article about a new approach to cloning research was published this week, along with a coordinated and obviously political effort to encourage paying women to undergo egg extraction for research.

High-interest clones[Editorial]NatureOctober 6th, 2011Research into cloned human cells has left the specter of past scientific fraud behind. But reaction to the earlier work still holds worthwhile lessons.

Stem Cell Research Used Cloning Technique, Paid Women for Eggs[Quotes CGS's Marcy Darnovsky]by Eryn Brown, Los Angeles TimesOctober 6th, 2011A new study reports a development in stem cell research involving research cloning that relied upon paying women for their eggs.

After Setbacks in Harvesting Stem Cells, a New Approach Shows Promiseby Nicholas Wade, New York TimesOctober 5th, 2011A new study shows promise for stem cell development but also raises concerns, as it paid women $8,000 to donate their eggs, an arduous process.

Women’s health and public interest groups warn against putting women’s health at risk in new kind of research cloningCenter for Genetics and Society, Our Bodies Ourselves, Pro-Choice Alliance for Responsible Research, and Alliance for Humane Biotechnology Question Egg Harvesting for Speculative Research October 5th, 2011"We should not put the health of young women at risk, especially to get raw materials for such exploratory investigations.”

Stem Cells Update: Clinical Trials, Possible Funds, Long-Range Visions and Short-Term Scamsby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesSeptember 29th, 2011Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) are edging back into the spotlight, with some tentatively hopeful news, and some schemes, visions, government money and possible scams.

Yet Another Idea for Using Biotechnology to Rescue Endangered Speciesby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesSeptember 8th, 2011Scientists have reprogrammed skin cells from two endangered species into stem cells, and hope to use them to generate gametes, which has provoked press speculation.

Government funding reaffirmed for stem cell researchby Eryn Brown, Los Angeles TimesJuly 28th, 2011A federal judge rules in favor of an Obama administration policy that expanded such funding, allowing the support to continue.

California agency: Little cells, big salary[Editorial]Los Angeles TimesJuly 7th, 2011The big paycheck of the state's stem cell research agency chief is disturbing, particularly because it's a time when most state agencies are making radical cutbacks.

New Chair for California Stem Cell Agencyby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesJune 29th, 2011By a narrow margin, the CIRM board elected financier Jonathan Thomas as Chair, provoking significant criticism over his huge salary.

Investment banker chosen to head state stem cell agencyby Keith Darce, Sign On San DiegoJune 22nd, 2011An oversight committee of California’s $3 billion stem cell research institute selected Los Angeles investment banker and attorney Jonathan Thomas to be its new chairman.

Missed opportunities at California stem cell research agencyby Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles TimesJune 7th, 2011The state agency that funds stem cell research has failed to address criticism that its research is too narrow and its governance overly secretive, and that it has lacked integration with the state's overall research investment.

California stem cell czar offered top pay, asked to name job description by Katie Worth, San Francisco ExaminerMay 29th, 2011Exactly what the new leader’s salary will be — and just as importantly, what his role will be — has deeply divided the leadership of the California Institute of Regenerative Medicine.

California officials nominate new board chairman for stem cell agencyby Eryn Brown, Los Angeles TimesMay 20th, 2011California Treasurer Bill Lockyer and Gov. Jerry Brown today nominated Jonathan Thomas to succeed Robert Klein as chairman of the governing board.

Setback for New Stem Cell Treatmentby Andrew Pollack, The New York TimesMay 13th, 2011Researchers reported on Friday that tissues made from induced pluripotent stem cells might be rejected by a patient’s immune system — even though the tissues would be derived from the same patient.

Stem Cell Strife in US and EU Courtsby Doug Pet, Biopolitical TimesMay 11th, 2011Developments in US and European courts regarding funding and oversight of stem cell research have reopened passionate debates.

Stem cells: CIRM funds Geron Corp. spinal cord injury trialby Eryn Brown, Los Angeles TimesMay 4th, 2011On Wednesday morning the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine announced a $25-million award to support a spinal cord injury trial, the first time that the agency has backed a human clinical trial.

Court Lets U.S. Resume Paying for Embryo Studyby Gardiner Harris, The New York TimesApril 29th, 2011Government financing of human embryonic stem cell research can continue, a federal appeals court ruled Friday.

Bioethicists Show How to Disagree Without Rancorby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesApril 19th, 2011Excerpts of a conversation between Arthur Caplan and Robert P. George demonstrate the possibility of constructive discussions about difficult ethical issues.

Look, no embryos! The future of ethical stem cellsby Alok Jha, The Observer (UK)March 13th, 2011Experts believe that developments in reprogrammed 'iPS' cells will truly revolutionise the treatment of life-threatening illnesses.

California controller Chiang on stem cell agency: 'Let the management manage' by Ron Leuty, San Francisco Business TimesMarch 9th, 2011“The (board’s) most important role...is severely compromised when that management includes the (board) chair,” Chiang wrote.

Reprogrammed Stem Cells Are Rife with MutationsThe findings cast doubt on a promising alternative to the use of embryonic stem cells in medicine.by Emily Singer, Technology ReviewMarch 3rd, 2011Two new studies published in Nature suggest that iPS cells may not be as promising for clinical applications as previously hoped.

Animal death toll ends cloning trials [New Zealand]by Kiran Chug, The Dominion PostFebruary 21st, 2011Although cloning trials will no longer be conducted, AgResearch will continue to develop transgenic cattle, sheep and goats.

State stem cell firm uses tax dollars for nonpublic campuses[Quotes CGS's Marcy Darnovsky]by Katie Worth, San Francisco ExaminerFebruary 20th, 2011The Institute's bill for PR is also being called into question, in a time when public resources are especially scarce.

Geron CEO Thomas Okarma resignsby Ron Leuty, San Francisco Business TimesFebruary 9th, 2011The move “reflects the company’s progression into mid-stage clinical development of multiple therapeutic product candidates.”

Dog, Inc.: A Book About Peopleby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesJanuary 11th, 2011A new book about dog cloning offers a deadpan description of the people involved.

Investigation opens over stem cell treatments[South Korea]by Kim Tae-Jong, The Korea TimesJanuary 6th, 2011An investigation has been launched into allegations that RNL Bio has been engaged in the illegal manufacturing of stem cell treatments and administering them to patients.

Suspended term upheld for Hwangby Park Si-soo, The Korea TimesDecember 16th, 2010An appellate court Thursday upheld a ruling that found Hwang Woo-suk guilty of embezzlement of government research funds and the illegal use of human ova.

Twists and Turns in California Stem Cell Leadershipby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesDecember 14th, 2010The position of Chairman at the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine has become embroiled in controversy.

Is Klein a Shoo-In for Chair of California Stem Cell? Maybe, Maybe Not[Commentary]by David Jensen, California Stem Cell ReportDecember 5th, 2010If the CIRM board re-elects Klein, it will be indicating to the stem cell community that it tolerates, if not approves of Klein's maladroit attempts to engineer the selection of his successor.

Questions raised over candidate for stem cell chairman by Jack Dolan, The Los Angeles TimesDecember 2nd, 2010Alan Bernstein is under consideration to be the California agency's next chairman, a post that comes with one of the state's highest paychecks.

With a review pending, the state's stem cell agency looks for new leadership, new therapies and more money[Op-Ed]by David Jensen, The Sacramento BeeNovember 28th, 2010Retired newsman David Jensen comments on California's stem cell agency.

Europeans Want Regulation for Biotechby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesNovember 18th, 2010The latest Eurobarometer report on biotechnology shows that Europeans, in general, support medical uses of technology as long as they are carefully regulated.

Another Korean Stem Cell Scandal? by Marcy Darnovsky, Biopolitical TimesNovember 17th, 2010The Korean biotech company best known for trying to sell cloned dogs is now promoting stem cell tourism. It is also allegedly giving Korean lawmakers bargain-rate stem cell treatments in exchange for their help in easing regulations.

In one niche, the risk to women is too great[Op-Ed]by Judy Norsigian, The Boston GlobeNovember 14th, 2010The executive director of Our Bodies Ourselves explains the health risks to women of using their eggs for cloning-based stem cell research.

Science in the New York Timesby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesNovember 11th, 2010The anniversary issue of the Science Times section includes analysis and predictions as well as news.

Hospitals caught offering illegal stem cell treatments[South Korea]by Bae Ji-sook, The Korea TimesNovember 7th, 2010Some have allegedly received illegal treatment at bargain prices in exchange for pushing for the deregulation of clinical tests.

Embryonic Stem Cells: A Small Step Forward?by Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesOctober 21st, 2010Geron's first clinical trial involving embryonic stem cells is greeted without much enthusiasm -- except by its competitors.

Women's Eggs for Research: Without Payment? by Susanne Schultz, Biopolitical Times guest contributor, Biopolitical TimesOctober 14th, 2010Despite California rules, researchers are already making plans to acquire eggs using models that involve indirect payments.

America’s Stem Cell Mess[Opinion]by Josephine Johnston, The ScientistOctober 13th, 2010Other countries have laws that provide researchers with legal and moral clarity.

First patient treated in stem cell study by Rob Stein, The Washington PostOctober 11th, 2010Doctors have injected human embryonic stem cells into a patient, marking the beginning of the first carefully designed attempt to test the promising but controversial therapy.

Scientists overcome hurdles to stem cell alternativesby Rob Stein, The Washington PostSeptember 30th, 2010Scientists have invented a more efficient way to produce apparently safe alternatives to human embryonic stem cells without destroying embryos.

60 Minutes on Stem Cells and Snake Oilby Osagie Obasogie, Biopolitical TimesSeptember 22nd, 201060 Minutes recently re-aired a story about stem cell con artists who play on the desperation of people with fatal degenerative diseases.

Resurrection of a Stem-Cell Funding Barrier — Dickey–Wicker in Court[Opinion]by George Annas, The New England Journal of MedicineSeptember 15th, 2010The place to resolve the issue of federal funding for embryonic stem cell research is in Congress.

Stem Cell Financing Ban Ends, for Nowby Gardiner Harris, New York Times September 9th, 2010Federal funding for embryonic stem cell research will continue while the federal appeals court deliberates further.

The Covenantby Peter J. Boyer, The New YorkerSeptember 6th, 2010Francis Collins, a fervent Christian, thought he had resolved the stem-cell debate. A federal judge disagreed.

The $3 Billion Question: Kids, Scientists and CIRM[Opinion]by David Jensen, The California Stem Cell ReportAugust 22nd, 2010Given the shortage of cash, should California fund stem stem research or schools?

Stem Cell Education and Hypeby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesAugust 4th, 2010The embryonic stem cell lobby seems to be making a concerted effort to promote their technology.

FDA approves Geron's groundbreaking study of embryonic cellsby Steve Johnson, Mercury NewsJuly 30th, 2010A Menlo Park biotech firm said Friday that federal regulators will let it proceed with the world's first human test of a treatment made from embryonic stem cells, a much-anticipated but controversial study of patients with spinal cord injuries that had been placed on hold for nearly a year because of safety concerns.

Prop 71 mastermind proposes another ballot measureby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesJuly 13th, 2010The primary force behind the California stem cell agency asserts that the public should give it even more funds.

Medicine agency stays immune to budget cuts[Quotes CGS's Jesse Reynolds]by Katie Worth, San Francisco ExaminerJuly 11th, 2010The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine has not faced the budget cuts other programs in California have encountered.

Universities Bank on Stem-Cell Research[Quotes CGS's Jesse Reynolds]by Robert A. Guth, Wall Street JournalJuly 1st, 2010Bay Area universities and research groups are betting they can spawn a new generation of medical breakthroughs and the next growth engine for the region's biotechnology industry.

California stem cell agency bars public from meeting on eggsby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesJune 23rd, 2010The CIRM can ill afford to be perceived as closed to public participation.

Bending the Rules in Californiaby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesJune 16th, 2010Susanne Schultz recently investigated two organizations which may be skirting California's laws prohibiting payments to women to provide eggs for stem cell research.

Stem cells, human genes, and patentsby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesMay 14th, 2010A recent ruling on a stem cell patent is similar with concurrent challenges to patents on human genes related to breast cancer.

PTO Finds Stem Cell Patent Anticipated, Obvious in Light of 'Significant Guideposts'[Quotes CGS's Jesse Reynolds]by Tony Dutra and Joyce Cutler, The Bureau of National AffairsMay 12th, 2010The Patent and Trademark Office appeals board found that a patent on human embryonic stem cells was invalid as obvious at the time of invention.

Upholding of WARF stem cell patent reversedThe Business Journal of MilwaukeeMay 3rd, 2010The US Patent and Trademark Office agreed with public interest critics and will likely end a major human stem cell patent.

Scientist who cloned Dolly the sheep sees revolution in disease treatment in 20 yearsby Mike Wade, The TimesMarch 29th, 2010The scientist who cloned Dolly the sheep believes that reprogrammed stem cells could revolutionize the treatment of inherited diseases "within ten to twenty years."

Selling With Stem Cellsby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesMarch 24th, 2010The Korean Food and Drug Administration (KFDA) is battling biotech companies over "stem cell cosmetics," some of which are already on sale in the U.S.

A Strange Provision in Federal Stem Cell Billby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesMarch 22nd, 2010A bill to codify federal embryonic stem cell research policy contains an odd section regarding reproductive cloning.

Stem cell agency draws Capitol scrutiny – againby John Howard, Capitol WeeklyMarch 18th, 2010Lawmakers - again -- are questioning the operations and culture of the state's stem cell program.

One of the Leading Scientists in the World?by Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesMarch 15th, 2010Robert Lanza, the Chief Scientific Officer of Advanced Cell Technology, projects great self-confidence, but is it justified?

Immortal Cells and Persistent Controversiesby Marcy Darnovsky, Biopolitical TimesFebruary 24th, 2010The riveting stories in a new best-seller are relevant to the biopolitical controversies we face today.

Korea Closer to Cloning Embryonic Stem Cellsby Kim Tae-gyu, The Korea TimesFebruary 18th, 2010Korean scientists are moving closer to deriving stem cells from cloned human embryos

Hwang Tries for a Comebackby Pete Shanks, Biopolitical TimesFebruary 5th, 2010Hwang Woo-Suk is making active efforts to salvage his reputation, and to reestablish himself as a force in science.

LA Times columnist's concerns over CIRM echo our ownby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesFebruary 3rd, 2010One of the most prominent political commentators in the state has again taken on California's controversial stem cell research program.

Skin cells turned directly into neuronsby Clive Cookson, Financial TimesJanuary 28th, 2010Stem cell scientists announced research that turned skin into nerve cells without any intermediate step.

Cellular reprogramming and bans on reproductive cloningby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesJanuary 19th, 2010A recent paper argues that prohibitions against human reproductive cloning should be strengthened to cover any method.

California's Proposition 71 Failure [Editorial]Investor's Business DailyJanuary 12th, 2010Five years after a budget-busting $3 billion was allocated to embryonic stem cell research, there have been no cures, no therapies and little progress.

State Stem Cell Funding Possibly In Jeopardy [Connecticut]by Arielle Levin Baker, Hartford CourantDecember 14th, 2009With a looming budget deficit, state stem cell funding could be in jeopardy.

Company seeks to test embryonic stem cells for blindnessby Maggie Fox, ReutersNovember 19th, 2009Advanced Cell Technology has asked for approval to test human embryonic stem cells in treating a rare cause of blindness.

Stem Cells Falling from Favorby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesNovember 15th, 2009The reining in of stem cell expectations continues.

Promises, Promisesby Stuart Blackman, The ScientistNovember 1st, 2009Ill-judged predictions and projections can be embarrassing at best and, at worst, damaging to the authority of science and science policy.

For Sale: Human Eggs Become a Research Commodityby Katherine Harmon, Scientific AmericanOctober 31st, 2009A decision to pay for eggs for stem cell studies sparks debate.

Scientists 'five years' from producing artificial sperm and eggsby Mark Henderson, The Times (UK)October 29th, 2009Primitive human sperm and eggs and the germ cells that make them have been created from embryonic stem cells.

California Awards Grants for Research Projects in Nonembryonic Stem Cellsby Andrew Pollack, New York TimesOctober 28th, 2009In a tacit acknowledgment that the promise of human embryonic stem cells is still far in the future, California’s stem cell research program awarded grants using mainly other, less controversial cells.

Disgraced cloning expert convicted in South Koreaby Hyoung-Jin Kim, Associated PressOctober 26th, 2009A South Korean stem cell scientist once hailed as a hero was convicted on criminal charges related to faked research, embezzlement, and inappropriate acquisition of human eggs, but avoided jail.

Symbol over Substanceby Jesse Reynolds, GeneWatch (Sep-Oct 2009)Cloning-based stem cell research has been more symbol than substance; more moving target than realistic goal. But it has been a monkey wrench in the gears for progressive advocates of responsible biotechnologies.

The rise and fall of hybrids in the UKby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesOctober 20th, 2009The remarkable push by UK researchers for animal-human hybrid embryos is another strange tale of science politics and science policy.

Good science and good ethics [PDF][Quotes CGS's Jesse Reynolds]by Donna Dickenson, Nature Reviews GeneticsOctober 7th, 2009Why we should discourage payment for eggs for stem cell research

Stem Cell Snake Oil and Shenanigansby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesSeptember 14th, 2009Three recent news stories have highlighted ethical shortcomings in the stem cell industry.

Human tissue can be taken for human-animal embryo experiments without consentby Laura Donnelly, The Telegraph (UK)September 12th, 2009Tens of thousands of samples of human tissue will be offered for use in controversial human/animal hybrid embryo research without the consent of the patients who donated them.

Susan Solomon's Stem Cell Spinby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesSeptember 9th, 2009Last week, researchers reported a significant advance toward better understanding of--and potential treatments for--Type 1 diabetes. Yet strangely enough, one research advocate used it as an opportunity to praise a technique that this study not only didn't use, but also helped to refute.

NIH Embryonic Cell Guidelines Would Allow Use of Cells Only From Fertility Treatments[Quotes CGS's Marcy Darnovsky and Jesse Reynolds]by Sarah Barr and Jeannie Baumann, The Bureau of National AffairsAugust 27th, 2009The National Institutes of Health released draft guidelines limiting government-funded human embryonic stem research to those embryos left over from fertility treatments.

Geron: FDA delays 1st trial of stem cell treatmentAssociated PressAugust 17th, 2009Regulators are delaying a trial of an embryonic stem cell treatment for spinal cord injury, drug developer Geron said.

The new stem cell--and more--lobbyby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesJuly 27th, 2009Why is a new lobby for stem cell research and regenerative medicine needed?

New York OKs paying women who donate eggs for research[Quotes CGS's Marcy Darnovsky]by Kevin B. O'Reilly, American Medical NewsJuly 27th, 2009Egg providers may get up to $10,000, an amount critics say could induce women to take unnecessary medical risks.

Live mice and sperm - both from stem cells - create new social and ethical challengesPublic interest group calls for federal oversight of reproductive usesJuly 26th, 2009Recent developments in cell reprogramming methods raise significant new ethical and social challenges.

Scientists Breed Mice From Skin Cells in ChinaDevelopment May Offer an Alternative to Controversial Embryonic Stem Cellsby Rob Stein, Washington PostJuly 23rd, 2009Scientists have bred mice from induced pluripotent stem cells, raising alarm that the advance could lead to human cloning and designer babies.

Other uses for laboratory-produced sperm?by Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesJuly 13th, 2009Advances in laboratory-produced sperm--if perfected--could also be used for other purposes, including troubling ones.

New York Times Editorials on Stem Cell ResearchJuly 13th, 2009A compilation of links to New York Times editorials on embryonic and cloning-based stem cell research

IVF discounts beat cash rewards for research eggs New ScientistJuly 12th, 2009Discounts for IVF are helping lure women to provide eggs for cloning-based stem cell research

Scientists claim breakthrough in growing human sperm from stem cellsby Karen McVeigh, The GuardianJuly 8th, 2009Scientists have created human sperm from embryonic stem cells, which could lead to new treatment for male infertility.

Reactions to final NIH stem cell rulesby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesJuly 8th, 2009The final guidelines for federal funding of human embryonic stem cell research, which still exclude cloning-based work, received nearly unanimous support. Some backers had been more critical of the largely similar draft guidelines.

Chair of Calif.'s Health Committee Will Wait Until 2010 to Introduce CIRM-Altering Billby Alex Philippidis, BioRegion NewsJuly 6th, 2009Potential reforms to California's stem cell research agency will wait until next year.

New US stem cell rules loosen some restrictionsby Maggie Fox, ReutersJuly 6th, 2009The US government released final rules governing federally funded on human embryonic stem cell research.

Final federal stem cell rules welcomed by public interest groupCenter for Genetics and Society applauds expansion of funding; exclusion of cloning techniquesJuly 6th, 2009The Obama Administration and the National Institutes of Health have made the right call by expanding the funds available for responsible embryonic stem cell research, while excluding federal support for stem cell lines derived using cloning techniques.

California stem cell agency digs in deeperby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesJuly 1st, 2009California's stem cell agency fights back against a call for reform by the state's independent "good government" agency-and threatens a lawsuit.

New York to Pay Women to Give Eggs for Stem Cell Researchby Rob Stein, Washington PostJune 25th, 2009New York has become the first state to allow taxpayer-funded researchers to pay women for giving their eggs for cloning-based stem cell research.

Sacramento Bee: "Stem cell chief's exit is long overdue"by Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesJune 24th, 2009The editorial board of the Sacramento Bee says that Robert Klein’s term as head of the state's stem cell agency can't end soon enough

"A bad idea whose time has apparently come"by Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesJune 23rd, 2009New York's stem cell program breaks with an international consensus, putting women's health at risk in order to pursue a discredited line of research.

Stem cell chief's exit is long overdue[Editorial]Sacramento BeeJune 20th, 2009In the midst of a state budget crisis, the stem cell institute is an island, spending freely, accountable to no one.

Will women one day father children?by Sheryl Ubelacker, The Globe and MailJune 18th, 2009Could same-sex human reproduction using stem cells one day become reality?

NY to pay for eggs for researchby Elie Dolgin, The ScientistJune 17th, 2009New York has become the first and only state to pay women for eggs for cloning-based stem cell research

Pluripotency: the third option?by Elie Dolgin, The ScientistJune 16th, 2009Techniques such as induced pluripotent stem cells could make stem cells derivation via parthenogenesis obsolete

"A conspiracy of hype"by Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesMay 28th, 2009Bioethicist Alta Charo says that "there’s almost been a conspiracy of hype" in stem cell research.

Aastrom's heart study put on hold after patient deathby Jennifer Robin Raj and Vinu Pilakkott, ReutersMay 22nd, 2009Aastrom Biosciences said a clinical trial of its stem cell treatment for heart failure was put on hold after a patient died.

What Obama's Support for Stem Cell Research Means for Californiaby Joe Mathews , Scientific AmericanMay 21st, 2009What does the lifting of restrictions on embryonic stem cell research mean for an oft-criticized state agency with $3 billion in grants to give out?

New York: OK to pay for eggs for stem cell researchby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesMay 19th, 2009The New York state stem cell research program is pushing the payment-for-eggs envelope further.

Gene Therapy's Tragedy: A Lesson for Stem Cell Research?by Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesMay 11th, 2009A gene transfer researcher argues caution for stem cell research. His advice should carry particular weight.

New Federal Stem Cell Research Guidelines and How to Comment on ThemMay 11th, 2009CGS believes the NIH guidelines strike the right balance needed to allow stem cell research to move forward in a socially responsible manner.

Selected Reactions to the NIH Draft Stem Cell Research GuidelinesMay 8th, 2009A compilation of comments - most supportive, a few critical - about the NIH stem cell guidelines by scientists, advocates, religious figures and others.

Cloning Heats Up as Next Bioresearch Fightby Alex Wayne, Congressional QuarterlyApril 28th, 2009The next biomedical research debate in Congress is shaping up: whether to allow government funding of experiments using potential stem cells from cloned human embryos.

NIH Embryonic Cell Guidelines Would Allow Use of Cells Only From Fertility Treatments[Quotes CGS's Jesse Reynolds]by Sarah Barr and Jeannie Baumann, The Bureau of National AffairsApril 27th, 2009The National Institutes of Health released draft guidelines limiting government-funded research using human embryonic stem cells to those left over from fertility treatments.

Obama Cools the Stem-Cell Debateby Jesse Reynolds, San Francisco ChronicleApril 27th, 2009The draft federal guidelines on embryonic stem cell research are a thoughtful approach, and the right thing to do.

California would remain on cutting edge under new U.S. stem cell policy[Cites CGS]by Lisa M. Krieger, San Jose Mercury NewsApril 22nd, 2009The long-awaited draft regulations from the National Institutes of Health means Bay Area scientists will continue relying on state and private funding to support much stem-cell research.

Draft federal stem cell policy gets it rightby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesApril 17th, 2009The NIH's new draft guidelines are consistent with President Obama' previous comments and public opinion, and also draw the right lines.

Federal stem cell guidelines welcomed by public interest groupCenter for Genetics and Society says NIH is drawing appropriate linesApril 17th, 2009"The guidelines open the door for federal funding of embryonic stem cell research, and ensure that it will be conducted responsibly."

New stem cells rules to ease limitsby Dan Vergano, USA TodayApril 17th, 2009The National Institutes of Health will fund human embryonic stem cell research on cells donated by fertility clinic patients, but not cloned cells.

California stem cell program needs a new treatment[Commentary]by Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles TimesMarch 30th, 2009The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine threatens to suck up precious fiscal resources of a state with none to spare and is rife with conflicts of interest.

CIRM Close-Hauled, Seeks Bonds to Sustain Headway[Cites CGS]by Constance Holden, ScienceMarch 27th, 2009The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine is scaling back, rethinking its priorities, and looking at how to mesh its activities with those of the NIH.

New stem cell regulations: By whose authority?by Bryn Nelson, Nature Reports Stem CellsMarch 19th, 2009Some think the US should adopt a UK regulatory structure for embryo research

Potential stem cell trouble in South Koreaby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesMarch 18th, 2009A team of researchers in South Korea has applied for approval to conduct cloning-based stem cell research. The concerns this raises should be placed in a wider context.

Obama's stem cell policy is welcome change, but ethics are permanent feature of debateby Jesse Reynolds, The Jurist onlineMarch 18th, 2009A few overlooked points about the change in federal stem cell research policy.

One more stem cell opinionby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesMarch 13th, 2009Here's one more commentary that I wish to add to my recent compilation of opinions following the change in federal stem cell policy.

Stem Cell Decision Worries Some Scientists [Quotes CGS's Jesse Reynolds]by Andrew Pollack, New York TimesMarch 11th, 2009Obama's decision has removed the original raison d'être for the California program and others like it. And with most states facing severe budget pressures, it may prove difficult to justify spending the money.

Stem cell opinion round-upby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesMarch 11th, 2009A collection of opinions from the first 48 hours after the change in federal human embryonic stem cell research policy.

Obama's Pledge to Science[Quotes CGS's Marcy Darnovsky]by Scott Jaschik, Inside Higher EdMarch 10th, 2009President Obama made good on his campaign promise to lift the restrictions on federal support for stem cell research.

Supporters of hESC Research Ecstatic with President Obama’s Executive Order[Quotes CGS's Marcy Darnovsky]by Debbie Strickland, Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology NewsMarch 10th, 2009"The rules should be enforceable rather than voluntary guidelines and should apply to all stem cell research, whether it is publicly or privately funded."

Obama's Order on Stem Cells Leaves Key Questions to NIHby Rob Stein, Washington PostMarch 10th, 2009President Obama's order lifting limits on federal funding for stem cell research raises the prospect that taxpayer money could be used for much broader, more controversial studies than many anticipated.

Obama on stem cell policy changeby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesMarch 10th, 2009Yesterday's removal of restrictions on federal funding of human embryonic stem cell research by President Obama was both big and welcome news, and not just because the restrictions were unpopular and unduly restrictive.

The Latest on Stem-Cell Research in California [MP3 audio][Interviews CGS's Jesse Reynolds]KCRW's Which Way, L.A.?March 9th, 2009The President lifted the Bush restrictions on stem cell research. What’s the impact on California, where voters invested $3 billion five years ago?

Obama overturns Bush policy on stem cellsby Philip Elliott, Associated PressMarch 9th, 2009President Barack Obama cleared the way for a significant increase in federal dollars for embryonic stem cell research.

Beyond stem cells: Public interest group urges strong regulation and oversight of reproductive and genetic biotechnologiesCenter for Genetics and Society welcomes stem cell policy shiftMarch 9th, 2009CGS welcomed the new federal funding policy for stem cell research announced by President Barack Obama, and called for Congress and the NIH to heed his directive for "strict guidelines" that they "rigorously enforce."

Obama Is Leaving Some Stem Cell Issues to Congress by Sheryl Gay Stolberg, New York TimesMarch 8th, 2009President Obama intends to avoid the thorniest question in the stem cell debate.

Stem cell 'cure' boy gets tumourBBC NewsFebruary 18th, 2009"Although this is just one case it does show that we need to be careful about the cell populations we are using."

Geron's Stem-Cell Research Hype Soaks Investorsby Adam Feuerstein, TheStreet.comFebruary 13th, 2009"The only thing Geron has done exceedingly well in its 13 years as a public company is surf the waves of stem-cell hype and use that momentum to raise lots of money."

More cloning, but still no stem cellsby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesFebruary 12th, 2009Three more research teams have created clonal human embryos, but none reported deriving stem cells from them.

Committee again sidesteps cloning research bid [South Korea]by Limb Jae-un, JoongAng DailyFebruary 6th, 2009A South Korean bioethics committee deferred a decision on whether to approve Cha General Hospital’s plan to research human embryonic cloning.

Obama's Coming Stem-Cell Decision May Not Jump-Start Researchby Paul Basken, Chronicle of Higher EducationFebruary 5th, 2009The science and economics of stem cell research have evolved so far that universities may not feel affected by President Obama's expected change in federal policy.

Animal eggs not a good source for embryonic stem cells: studyAgence France PresseFebruary 2nd, 2009Eggs from cows, rabbits and other animals are not a good source for creating embryonic stem cells

Has change come to biology?Stem cell research under Obamaby John Timmer, arts technicaFebruary 2nd, 2009The New York Stem Cell Foundation hosted a panel discussion of what the Obama administration might hold for stem cell research.

Politics enters state's stem cell research program[Quotes CGS's Jesse Reynolds]by Eric Bailey, Los Angeles TimesFebruary 2nd, 2009Just as Obama's election opens the door to progress, Democrats and Republicans square off over a key appointment to California's stem cell research program.

Despite money woes, stem cell institute to award more grantsby Terri Somers, San Diego Union TribuneJanuary 31st, 2009Should the state stem cell institute keep approving research grants, even though it will run out of money about the end of September because of the state budget impasse?

Potential payment for eggs in New York: An updateby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesJanuary 30th, 2009New York state's stem cell research program deferred consideration of payments for women to provide eggs for stem cell research.

From cellular reprogramming to human genetic modificationby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesJanuary 30th, 2009While reprogrammed iPS cells may resolve quandaries about embryo destruction, they could also be a path towards human genetic modification

Promise, peril seen with embryonic stem cellsby Steve Johnson, San Jose Mercury NewsJanuary 26th, 2009California's $3 billion effort to fund human embryonic stem-cell research illustrates some of the obstacles to companies selling treatments.

Always falling behindby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesJanuary 23rd, 2009A new report concludes that the US is still the world leader in stem cell research. Although likely true, the report should be viewed skeptically.

FDA Approves a Stem Cell Trial by Andrew Pollack, New York TimesJanuary 23rd, 2009In a research milestone, the federal government will allow the world’s first test in people of a therapy derived from human embryonic stem cells.

NY stem cell research nears dangerous lineby Jesse Reynolds, NewsdayJanuary 23rd, 2009Stem cell research may soon make headlines again. But in New York, a different type of stem cell controversy is brewing.

Stem Cells in the Time of Fiscal Difficultiesby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolical TimesJanuary 22nd, 2009David Jensen challenges the state's lavish subsidies for stem cell research in a time of major budget cutbacks.

Letter to the New York stem cell research program ethics boardby Jesse Reynolds and Susan FogelJanuary 21st, 2009The Center for Genetics and Society and the Pro-Choice Alliance for Responsible Research sent this letter regarding the consideration of payments for eggs for research.

A new tune for CAMR? Hopefully so.by Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesJanuary 16th, 2009The Coalition for the Advancement of Medical Research (CAMR) seems to be trying to both cool the stem cell wars and to keep them alive

Federal Biotechnology Policy: Stem Cells and Beyond Center for Genetics and Society releases policy brief for the Obama AdministrationJanuary 14th, 2009In anticipation of an expected policy change by President-elect Barack Obama regarding federal funding for stem cell research, the Center for Genetics and Society has released a policy brief, "Responsible Federal Oversight of the New Human Biotechnologies: Opportunities for the New Administration."

Hwang to Back His Own Inventionsby Kim Tong-hyung, The Korea TimesJanuary 12th, 2009Getting a shot at redemption, Hwang's colleague at the Sooam Biotech Research Center confirmed that Seoul National University had handed over the intellectual property rights for Hwang's claimed inventions in human stem cell research to H-Bion.

New stem cell research backgrounder for reporters in anticipation of new policy under President Obama January 9th, 2009The Center for Genetics and Society has released a briefing document to assist reporters in their coverage of the expected announcement of a new federal policy.

Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research: Frequently Asked Questions and Fact Sheet [PDF]January 9th, 2009The Center for Genetics and Society has released a briefing document to assist reporters and others in preparation of the expected announcement of a new federal policy.

Next Steps for Stem Cell Research and Related Policies [PDF]Considerations for the New AdministrationJanuary 7th, 2009The Center for Genetics and Society met on January 2 with members of the new administration's transition team to discuss its future stem cell policies.

Democrats Debate Methods to End Stem Cell Ban by Carl Hulse, New York TimesJanuary 2nd, 2009Democrats are now debating whether to overturn federal restrictions through executive order or by legislation when they assume full control of the government this month

SNU drops bid for stem cell patentby Ser Myo-ja, JoongAng DailyDecember 31st, 2008Seoul National University has decided to end efforts to obtain overseas patents for stem cell technology of disgraced scientist Hwang Woo-suk

Cloning ban law likely not legal, trial judge saysAssociated PressDecember 31st, 2008A Missouri judge said that a state constitutional amendment endorsing stem cell research likely creates problems for a law set up to award life science research grants.

Scientists eager for stem cell policy changeby Jeffrey Young, The HillDecember 24th, 2008Although Obama's pledge to change federal policy on stem cell research is not likely to lead to new cures by the end of his first term, the scientific community is eager to get moving.

California Stem Cell Agency Faces Cash Freeze S.F. institute considers its options, may sell bonds privately by Ron Leuty, San Francisco Business TimesDecember 23rd, 2008The global financial crisis may do what opponents of California's $3 billion state-sponsored stem cell research experiment could not: dry up funding.

Birds of a Featherby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesDecember 18th, 2008In what may just be a match made in heaven, two controversial cloning-based stem cell research companies have formed a joint venture.

Next Steps for Progressive Stem Cell Politicsby Marcy Darnovsky, Science ProgressDecember 16th, 2008In the wake of the Bush administration’s policies, we will have the political space to craft a pro-research stand that simultaneously highlights the need for consistent and enforceable regulation, for hope without hype, and for developing human biotechnologies according to principles of social justice and human rights.

Vatican Ethics Guide Stirs ControversyChurch Decries Stem Cell Research, Infertility Treatmentsby Rob Stein and Michelle Boorstein, The Washington PostDecember 13th, 2008The Vatican's first authoritative statement on reproductive science in 21 years triggered intense debate yesterday about some of the most contentious issues in modern biological research, including stem cells, designer babies, cloning, and a host of techniques widely used to prevent pregnancy and to help infertile couples have children.

Klein Will Get Paid to Head CIRMby Ron Leuty, San Francisco Business TimesDecember 10th, 2008The board of California's stem cell agency has voted to start paying a salary of $150,000 for half-time work to Chairman Robert Klein, who has served unpaid since the institute began four years ago.

Salary Plan at Stem Cell Institute Is CriticizedGovernor cites state deficit in opposing leaders' payby Terri Somers, The Union TribuneDecember 6th, 2008With the state facing a possible $28 billion deficit, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has expressed “deep concern” about the state stem cell institute's plans to set the salaries for the chairman and vice chairman of its board, two positions for which no one has accepted pay in three years.

A Call for a New Federal Embryonic Stem Cell Research Agendaby Rick Weiss, Center for American ProgressDecember 4th, 2008The incoming Obama administration will soon have the opportunity to reassert U.S. scientific leadership in two of the most exciting and promising fields of biomedical research - embryonic stem cell science and regenerative medicine.

Couples in US Prefer to Donate Embryos for Research, Study FindsDuke University study shows that 41% of patients who finished fertility treatment consider donating embryosMcClatchy NewspapersDecember 4th, 2008The debate over embryonic stem cell research centres on the sanctity of life. But the couples who create the leftover embryos would rather they be destroyed in the course of scientific research than be given a chance at becoming babies.

CIRM won't give up on eggs for cloning-based workby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesDecember 3rd, 2008The California stem cell research agency indicates that it will continue its recent push for women's eggs for cloning-based stem cell research, perhaps paying if necessary.

ACT, Korean Biotech Form New Stem Cell Joint VentureMass High TechDecember 2nd, 2008Worcester biotech Advanced Cell Technology Inc. and Korean biotech CHA Biotech Co. Ltd. have formed a new stem cell technology development company called Allied Cell Technology, to be based in Worcester. The international joint venture will use ACT’s hemangioblast cell technology to develop human blood cells.

Obama policy a lift for stem cell researchers[ Quotes CGS's Jesse Reynolds ]by Bernadette Tansey, San Francisco ChronicleNovember 29th, 2008What is potential economic impact in California of the lifting of the restrictions on the federal funding of embryonic stem cell research?

European agency rules against stem cell patentsby Michael Kahn, ReutersNovember 27th, 2008European regulators ruled against allowing a patent on developing human embryonic stem cells.

Obama and the future of stem cell politicsby Marcy Darnovsky, Biopolitical TimesNovember 26th, 2008Remember stem cell politics during the 2004 presidential campaign? What a difference four years make.

Editorial: Stem cell institute in a harsh spotlightSacramento BeeNovember 24th, 2008The editorial board of the Sacramento Bee calls for reform of California's stem cell research program.

Submitted testimony concerning the California stem cell research programFor the "Little Hoover" Commission on California State Government Organization and Economyby Jesse ReynoldsNovember 20th, 2008Jesse Reynolds testified before the "Little Hoover" Commission on potential reforms to the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine

Moreno to lead bioethics during presidential transitionby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesNovember 18th, 2008Jonathan Moreno has been appointed to the transition team of US President-elect Obama.

Bipartisan inquiry into California’s stem cell agency to hear from Jesse Reynolds by Marcy Darnovsky, Biopolitical TimesNovember 18th, 2008The Little Hoover Commission, an independent state body that promotes efficiency and effectiveness, is launching a study of governance issues at the CIRM.

Last Second Shotby Osagie Obasogie, Biopolitical TimesNovember 17th, 2008ESPN recently ran a web feature story and televised segment (see below) on NBA All- Star forward Carlos Boozer and his son’s struggle with sickle cell anemia.

Green's surprising turn on stem cellsby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesNovember 12th, 2008Does Ronald Green's new found moderation on stem cells represent a change in his perspective, or a shift to accommodate the changed political landscape, or something else?

Stem cells made from brain tissues by Japanese researchersby Richard Alleyne, TelegraphNovember 6th, 2008Stem cells taken from human embryos were used to form tissues of the cerebral cortex, the supreme control tower of the brain which is involved in thinking and motion.

Keep your eye on the stem cell ball, Part 2by Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesNovember 6th, 2008Instead of steps towards cellular therapy, stem cells are being used to test drugs.

RIP: Stem Cells in Politics (2002-2008)by Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesNovember 5th, 2008Michigan may have passed its stem cell research initiative, but the real message from this election cycle is the end of embryonic stem cell research as a relevant political issue.

Michigan Proposal to Expand Stem Cell Research Passesby Megha Satyanarayana, Free PressNovember 4th, 2008A proposal to loosen restrictions on embryonic stem cell research in Michigan has passed according to analysis of key precinct results and exit poll data.

The Race Card in Michiganby Osagie Obasogie, Biopolitical TimesNovember 3rd, 2008Opponents of Proposal 2 tend to view embryos as an early form of human life and therefore see embryonic stem cell research as unethical human experimentation. To bolster their moral claim regarding the use of vulnerable subjects in scientific research, they are now comparing embryonic stem cell research to the Tuskegee experiment.

UK Grants All the Scientists' Wishesby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesOctober 29th, 2008The bill overhauling the United Kingdom's oversight of assisted reproduction and embryo research granted researchers essentially all that they asked for, and then some.

Another November, Another Stem Cell Ballot Measureby Jesse Reynolds, Biopolitical TimesOctober 28th, 2008For the fourth time in five years, there's an embryonic stem cell research (ESCR) initiative on a state ballot.

Mich. Ad Likens Stem-Cell Work to Tuskegee Studyby David Eggert, Associated PressOctober 23rd, 2008A television ad created by opponents of a ballot measure that would allow embryonic stem-cell research in Michigan likens such work to the infamous Tuskegee syphilis study.

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