Newsbriefs
Michigan – Years before the debate over the federal funding of embryonic stem cell research hit the headlines, the state of Michigan passed a law that completely prohibits any research on live human embryos, fetuses, or neonates. In 1978, Michigan passed PA368 or MCL (Michigan Compiled Law) 333.2685-2692. This law states that research cannot take place on an embryo if that research isn't designed to benefit the subject of the research (the embryo). Michigan and a handful of other states have laws that protect unborn children from the non-therapeutic research that is currently being debated. In Michigan, human embryo research is a felony punishable by imprisonment of up to 5 years.

Michigan scientists have been analyzing non-destructive forms of stem cell research. A group of Michigan-based companies are working with adult stem cells in hopes of finding ways to cure some of today's deadliest diseases. The Associated Press reported that Aastrom Biosciences, located in Ann Arbor, has developed a system that lets researchers remove stem cells from bone marrow in order to grow more stem cells outside the body. Researchers are also using these bone marrow stem cells to grow bone cells to buck osteoporosis, working with stem cells from umbilical cord blood that could treat cancerous tumors through an immune system cell therapy, and a program has been developed so hospital and other research centers can grow stem cells on their own.

Fortunately, Aastrom is only one of many places where adult stem cell research is taking place. At the home of the maize and blue, the University of Michigan has more than 100 researchers working with adult stem cells. Another company, Nephros Therapeutics Inc., is working on developing a system where stem cells could be used to help when kidneys fail. The Barbara Ann Karmanos Institute in Detroit allows new mothers to donate their child's umbilical cord. Stem cells from the blood of these cords are given to patients whose immune system and bloodstream have been diminished by drugs that fight cancer.

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