Stem cell science hub launched

MONASH University has launched the world's largest facility for research into stem cell sciences.The Major National Research Facility in Melbourne's east, which includes the Australian Stem Cell Centre and the Monash Immunology and Stem Cell Laboratories, were opened by federal Science Minister Dr Brendan Nelson and Victorian Minister John Brumby.

Dr Nelson said the new facility was part of an federal government drive to build research infrastructure, with $542 million to be invested over seven years. He said stem cell research could help treat heart disease, Type 1 diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders, osteoporosis and lung disease.

Centre spokesman Professor Alan Trounson said the laboratories represented a joint effort by universities, federal and state governments and industry to help improve stem cell research.

"They (the centres) are world-class facilities that will greatly enhance the ability of scientists from Australia and around the world to produce internationally competitive stem cell research and commercial outcomes," Professor Trounson said. "We have drawn together some of the world's best scientists from immunology and stem cell biology to develop new and exciting innovations in transplantation, cell and gene therapy, and therapeutics in blood, lung, kidney and reproductive cancer."

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,5744,12300566%255E1702,00.html

To ask the question is to answer it.

I am a Type 2 diabetic - this is critical for me- and I have no "pro-life" hang-ups about stem cell research. To me, stem cell research is "pro life" and banning stem cell research a'la Bush, is "pro death."

What advances have been made in other coutries?

It got hung up in the "abortion" fight and has been equated to "abortion" by the "pro-lifers" (that is, the Intelligent Designers and the Creationists).

In my community of faith we equate stem cell research to organ donation/organ transplantation - not to abortion.

because of the fucking puritans here.

I guess it matters being in a country that RESPECTS science.