From the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Boston Globe:

When Joe Biden suggested that opposition to stem-cell research signals less dedication to people with disabilities, he was highlighting an issue that has been energizing the GOP’s social conservatives.

The Democratic vice-presidential nominee’s comments were apparently aimed at his Republican rival, Gov. Sarah Palin.

Politics aside, stem-cell research appears to hold little promise of mitigating Down syndrome or helping those with the condition. People with Down syndrome are born with an extra chromosome, and “that is something that does not seem to be easily addressed with stem cells,” said Brian Skotko, whose research and medical practice at Children’s Hospital in Boston focuses on Down syndrome.

The greater potential for stem-cell technologies is as a source of replacement cells and tissues for the treatment of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease, spinal-cord injury, strokes, burns, heart disease and arthritis, according to the National Institutes of Health stem-cell Web site.

An Obama spokesman said the Democrats’ support for embryonic stem cell research could provide “real hope” to families dealing with disabilities.

Sen. Obama’s plan to help Americans with disabilities includes increasing education and work opportunities, combating discrimination and supporting independent, community-based living.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, September 10th, 2008 at 2:08 pm and is filed under Campaign 2008, Down syndrome, NOT2BEMISSED, alzheimer's, chronic illness, parkinson's, politics, research news. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.  Email This Post