Alliance for Aging Research Statement on Newly Released President's Council On Bioethics Report On Human Cloning, Human Dignity

7/11/2002

From: Amber McCracken of the Alliance For Aging Research, 202-293-2856, ext. 116

WASHINGTON, July 11 -- The Alliance For Aging Research is terribly dismayed by the majority agreement announced today by the President's Council on Bioethics to place a four-year moratorium on therapeutic cloning. The Alliance agrees with the Council on its recommendation to ban reproductive cloning. However, the moratorium on therapeutic cloning is a deliberate barrier to scientific breakthroughs that may help millions of Americans suffering from debilitating diseases.

"While the intent of these individuals on this Council is well meaning, a moratorium will stop therapeutic cloning in its tracks in the U.S. for years to come," said Daniel Perry, executive director for the non-profit Alliance for Aging Research. "Patients suffering everyday with painful illnesses should not be asked to wait. They deserve better."

The Alliance is pleased that a total ban on therapeutic cloning was rejected by the Council. This indicates that there is a significant and urgent need to move forward with more research into the area of regenerative medicine and somatic nuclear cell transfer.

"The Council's conclusions are not surprising," said Mr. Perry. "We've always known where many of the council member stand. But the majority view of this Council does not represent the opinions of the millions of Americans living with life-threatening diseases."

As this issue continues to be debated in the Senate, the Alliance urges Senators to pay special attention to the arguments presented in the Council's report advocating the need to move forward with therapeutic cloning.

"While a recommendation from the President's Council to abstain from this important research is discouraging, a federal moratorium by the Senate would be the ultimate demise of regenerative medicine in the U.S.," stated Perry. "The real battle to advance cures with therapeutic cloning will take place on the Senate floor."

Faced with a federal moratorium, research scientists at the forefront of stem cell research will redirect their efforts and intellect to another area of science. Or, as an alternative, they might move to another country-where such research is not only permitted, but also encouraged.

"Americans have faith in science and technology serving humane ends," stated Perry. "Today we take a step back as other countries continue to move forward."

For an interview with Daniel Perry, executive director of the Alliance for Aging Research, please call Amber McCracken at 202-293-2856, ext. 116 or on her cell phone at 703-599-0134.

Advancing Science. Enhancing Lives.