More on stem cells

Your editorial on stem cells, June 2006) was interesting and informative in places, but a bit confusing in others. As you know, ESC (embryonic stem cells) have so much potential that they often turn into tumors. Once we understand the molecular basis of embryology (which proteins turn which genetic switches on and off in what order) we won't need ESC at all. For examples of these switches, see medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=44400&nfid=nl and stemcells.alphamedpress.org/cgi/content/abstract/22/3/377

You write, “And a pox on federal-government ninnies who now won't fund any stem cell research because they treat the topic as tainted.” Actually, they do fund adult stem cell research. The NIST Advanced Technology Program is providing $2 million to RheoGene, Inc. for developing novel techniques for site-specific insertion and control of therapeutic genes in human adult neural stem cells that can be transplanted to treat incurable ocular diseases. jazz.nist.gov/atpcf/prjbriefs/prjbrief.cfm?ProjectNumber=00-00-60

Google might turn up a few more. For example, “Federal funding for research involving mouse embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells (both mouse and human) is currently available and is not restricted.” www.isscr.org/science/faq.htm#17 (a pro-ESC site)

You say, “Several state governments, such as California and Ohio, are not so myopic. They view (ASC) technology as a growth industry and are funding it.” Myopic is not the word. I would suggest “amoral.” Everything depends on whether or not the fetus is a living human being. Scientifically, he or she is human. In fact, we know that the gender of the fetus (along with every other genetic trait) is determined at conception.

You say, “Adult stem-cell research is in its infancy with enormous potential. It's not the time for discussions in whispers.” I agree that the discussions should not be in whispers, but I don't think that is the problem. The problem is that people aren't thinking or writing clearly. Adult stem cells have been used therapeutically for 40 years. Yes, embryonic stem cell research is in its infancy. But that vampire should be strangled in its crib before we all succumb to its evil. Yes, ESC is vampirism. What else do you call a search for immortality through the harvesting of the innocent?
Tihamer T. Toth-Fejel

General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems
Michigan Research Center

NDAs

A timely article editorial on NDAs (Medical Design, July/August 2006). We average about two NDA's a week and just about every one calls for a return of ALL information and material upon completion or dissolution. We require adding a clause that lets us retain one set of pertinent documents in the event of any future requests or litigation.
James D. Meier
SMC Molding and Manufacturing
Somerset, WI