WASHINGTON, DC – Energy and Commerce Committee Vice Chair Diana DeGette (D-CO), chief architect of the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act, released the following statement regarding the news of an additional method of stem cell research:

“I continue to be encouraged by the development of new methods for stem cell research. Because the research announced today destroys about twenty-percent of the embryos used in this technique, it will not solve the ethical concerns raised by those who oppose embryonic stem cell research.

“The vast promise of ethical stem cell research is underscored by the recent announcements of new research techniques. The federal government needs to support all types of ethical stem cell research including embryonic stem cell research.

“We need to develop a robust research program and strong national ethical guidelines for stem cell research.

“Although the recent breakthroughs in stem cell research are exciting, they are not a substitute for embryonic stem cell research, which has shown the most promise. The broad, bipartisan coalition in Congress who supports embryonic stem cell research remain committed to all forms of ethical stem cell research.

“Politicians should not let the moral judgment of a very few dictate ethical scientific progress.  There is a national concern that embryonic stem cell research and these other methods should progress forward under a strict ethical framework.”