Vanderbilt, CMDA locked in Tennessee embryonic stem cell conflict

In Tennessee, Vanderbilt University is conducting human embryonic stem cell research that it believes will save lives. The university has been a national leader in human embryonic stem cell research for several years. However, a state-level Christian group, the Christian Medical and Dental Association, is opposed to the university's research.

Consequently, the Christian Medical and Dental Association welcomes the news that a federal judge has decided governmental funding for human embryonic stem cell research is not legal. The Federal Government intends to appeal the decision. Tennessee has become a key player in the stem cell debate. Even the state's two U.S. senators oppose each other on the issue.

Vanderbilt's Dr. Mark Magnuson said that, unless the judge's ruling is reversed, all embryonic stem cell research by his organization will have to stop. Meanwhile, Dr. David Stevens, who is the CEO for the Christian Medical and Dental Association reiterated that embryonic stem cell research "crossed the line of ethical medicine."

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