Stem Cell Obstacle Solved, But to Limited Effect
Corbis
A stem cell as seen through a microscope.
Corbis
Stem cell as seen through a microscope.
Scientists in California have developed a method for growing human embryonic stem cells without relying on animal cells that could contaminate them with viruses. The new approach solves a major problem in a field that hopes to use the cells in medical therapies. But distributing the new lines to other researchers is a challenge; the government restricts federal funding on lines not created prior to 2001. NPR's Joe Palca reports.
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