Harvard seeks to clone human embryos

Scientists from Harvard University have recently asked the prominent university's ethical review board to grant them permission to clone human embryos for the research of disease. They hope to find new ways to study and cure a variety of diseases.
Stem cell research is becoming a large political issue during this presidential campaign. President Bush recently signed an order that limits the federal assistance given to any study except for those with previously existing stem cell lines, while Senator Kerry is a supporter of stem cell research.
Stem cells are cells that can give rise to many differentiated tissues within the body. The use of embryonic stem cells could someday treat and cure a large number of diseases. This gives much hope to people with diseases such as Parkinson's or for those with spinal cord injuries. Taking a stem cell from an embryo results in the death of the embryo, and this is what makes them so controversial.
Harvard's ethical review board is considering all of the options and issues that are currently associated with stem cell research. They are being very careful in their considerations and aren't sure when they will come to a decision.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6237283/