STEM CELLS: Scientist says Ohio endangers research

Article published Sunday, May 15, 2005
Bill bars the use of 3rd Frontier grants
By JIM PROVANCE
TOLEDO BLADE COLUMBUS BUREAU

COLUMBUS - An Ohio State University researcher who expects delivery within weeks of human embryonic stem cells is battling legislation he fears could endanger his hopes for a research center at the school.

"If this passes, it would be virtually impossible for Ohio to recruit the best and brightest scientists," said Douglas Kaniss, OSU professor of obstetrics, gynecology, and medical engineering. "This is sort of the Holy Grail of biology."

The Republican-controlled Ohio House inserted language into a proposed two-year state budget that would prohibit use of Third Frontier research and development grants for activities involving human embryonic stem cells or embryonic tissue.

ETC....