The American Diabetes Association today strongly expressed its support for federal legislation that would accelerate stem cell research by easing existing restrictions and supporting research that uses embryonic stem cells. The Association has urged Members of the House of Representatives to vote in favor of H.R. 810, the "Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2005" when it is expected to be considered on Tuesday.
"The American Diabetes Association is committed to finding a cure for diabetes, as well as to finding better treatment options for individuals with diabetes until a cure is available," said Lynn B. Nicholas, FACHE, Chief Executive Officer, American Diabetes Association. "Stem cell research holds much promise in the search for better treatment and for a cure for the more than 18 million Americans with diabetes. By expanding the number of stem cell lines that are eligible for federally funded research while also implementing strong ethical guidelines to improve federal oversight, H.R.810 not only provides hope to patients with type 1 diabetes but also for all Americans with diabetes who are in need of significantly improved treatment options. We urge Members of Congress to vote in favor of this legislation."
Although the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is the country's leading research institution, the work it can carry out in the area of stem cell research is severely limited due to current federal policy. Federal regulations that President Bush announced in 2001 have restricted the number of human embryonic stem cell lines available for federally-funded research, and attempted usage of those lines has demonstrated that the number of adequate lines is even smaller than expected. A significant expansion in the number of available lines is necessary in order to fully reap the medical rewards of stem cell research.
Stem cell research allows scientists to better explore how to control and direct stem cells so they can grow into other cells, such as insulin-producing beta cells found in the pancreas. Creating new beta cells could mean a cure for type 1 diabetes as they would serve as a replenishable source of cells for islet cell transplantation. They could also provide a powerful tool for controlling type 2 diabetes.