SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH, EDUCATION, LABOR, AND PENSIONS: HEARING ON STEM CELL RESEARCH
posted in Candidates, Christopher Dodd (D), Issues, Stem Cell Research |Original source: http://dodd.senate.gov/index.php?q=node/3274&pr=press/Speeches/107_01/0905.htm
SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH, EDUCATION, LABOR, AND PENSIONS: HEARING ON STEM CELL RESEARCH
Statement of Senator Chris Dodd
September 5, 2001
“For months, we have heard from scientists, bioethicists, religious leaders, and fellow citizens. Their sentiments have often differed, but they have reflected our collective thought process. We have learned about the tremendous potential of stem cells to give new hope for therapies and possible cures for some of the most debilitating diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and diabetes. In fact, earlier this year, Israeli scientists coaxed some human embryonic stem cells into insulin-producing cells. While this is an early development, imagine what this could mean in the fight against juvenile diabetes. And, just this week, we read about University of Wisconsin researchers who have coaxed human embryonic stem cells into blood-making cells.
“At the same time, we have been challenged by the deeply held convictions of stem cell research opponents. Weighing the suffering caused by juvenile diabetes and the possibility of lessening that against what some believe to be nascent life, is a terribly complex issue. Ethically, morally, and legislatively. The debate is being held around our nation, and I am pleased to have the discussion brought here today.
“As of August 9th, under the President’s proposal, only research on stem cell lines already in existence may be funded with federal dollars. The President has said that taxpayer money should only be used in cases where the life or death decision has already been made. Again, I understand and respect the convictions of those who oppose federal funding for stem cell research on the basis that it destroys embryos, but I wonder if that decision has been any less determined in the case of the thousands of frozen embryos in fertility clinics due to otherwise be destroyed.
“Given the possibility that stem cell research could have a significant impact on the health and quality of life for so many Americans, should we not explore that possibility with frozen embryos that will be discarded otherwise– embryos that have been donated by properly informed donors and could be used in developing lifesaving therapies. It seems to me that using these embryos, which will be destroyed, for this purpose is the most life-affirming position we could take.
“That is why, while I applaud the President’s deliberative process and his recognition of the potential of this research, I do not believe that his policy goes far enough - specifically in excluding research on the frozen embryos that will be destroyed at fertility clinics. Stem cells may not live up to the high hopes and expectations we have. It may be that people who are suffering from diabetes and Alzheimer’s, among other ailments, will have to continue their long wait for breakthrough cures. We do not know enough yet, but I fear that if we go forward with the restrictions the President has outlined, we may never have the opportunity to discern the true potential of these cells.
“Already, in the three weeks since President Bush’s announcement, we have encountered potential barriers to research, under his proposal, including: 1) the availability of the stem cell lines the Administration has identified - only 20 out of 64 on the approved list of stem cell lines actually belong to American organizations — and 2) access to these lines because of a maze of patent and intellectual property rights.
“And every day, new questions arise. Almost all of the 60-plus stem cell lines have been cultivated with embryonic tissue from mice and some researchers are concerned that this could lead to complications in the application to human diseases. Furthermore, the Institute in Sweden which was identified as having almost one-third of the approved list may have far less than the 19 lines expected. Only 3 of their lines are viable, while 4 are still being tested and studied. The other 12 are in the “early stages” and researchers would be pleased if 3 of these lines develop. It seems that we are losing ground on an already restrictive policy and I am concerned about the chilling effect of this on the effort to find lifesaving therapies.
“I am equally committed to ensuring that science does not outpace our policies or our ethics. I certainly share the concern of many Americans that embryos should not be created for the sole purpose of stem cell research. Americans are rightfully worried that this research, with its great potential to treat, has a great potential for abuse. This is why we must have meaningful, well-defined ethical and safety guidelines as the research moves forward. Federal funding, under the National Institutes of Health, can help provide the transparency and rigorous oversight that is needed for this work.
“We must also make sure, especially in light of the fact that this endeavor is still in its infancy, that we return to these questions again and revisit our policy choices as our knowledge and understanding increases. For example, I would like to see researchers begin to look more closely at embryonic, umbilical cord, and adult stem cells to see which in fact hold the most promise. I hope today will be the first of many open conversations with the Administration and outside experts about this policy.
“I look forward to hearing from today’s witnesses and to participating in a thoughtful dialogue about how best to move forward with this research.”
