“The goal of this research is to cure patients using their own tailor-made cells,” said Daniel Perry, President of CAMR. “While those opposed to medical research may argue that this work could lead us closer to human reproductive cloning, it’s just not the case. There is a clear, bright line that divides reproductive cloning from somatic cell nuclear transfer and that’s implantation. Without it, no new human life can be created,” he added.

“We call on Congress to follow the common sense conclusion that most Americans have reached—pass legislation that would prohibit reproductive cloning, but allow and encourage this kind of very exciting scientific research,” stressed Sean Tipton, Vice President of CAMR.

Scientists believe embryonic stem cells may hold vast potential in the fight against deadly diseases. The cells, which can replicate themselves indefinitely, may some day be used to grow new tissue that will become the “missing link” needed to cure some of the world’s most debilitating illnesses. SCNT is fundamentally different from human reproductive cloning; it produces stem cells, not babies. SCNT aims to treat or cure patients by creating tailor-made, genetically identical cells that their bodies won’t reject. In other words, developing cures using a patient’s own DNA.

“This is the first study to prove in humans what has already been demonstrated in animal models—that somatic cell nuclear transfer can successfully be used to generate embryonic stem cells. It’s a very exciting advance,” noted Mr. Perry. “While this research is preliminary, it does show what is possible and provides hope to millions suffering from life-threatening diseases and conditions,” he added.