Legislators set hearing on stem cell research

tem cell research is the focus of an informational hearing being held on campus Sept. 14 by the Legislature's Joint Committee on Health Care.

     Medical experts and researchers from the UMass Medical School, Harvard Medical School, Advanced Cell Technology and the Massachusetts Physicians Resource Council are among those scheduled to offer testimony at the hearing from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in 168C Lincoln Campus Center.

     "Stem cell research is more than just an idea in Massachusetts — it's a reality," said House Health Care Chair Harriet L. Stanley (D-West Newbury).

     "Scientists and researchers in the academic community, as well as the private biotech industry, are developing new research that will lead to new disease treatment protocols.

     "We must be well informed about the long- and short-term potential of this research, its risks and rewards, as well as the impact of federal policy governing the use of public funding for research."

     The hearing is open to the public.