Spain OKs Stem Cell Research Conditions

MADRID, Spain (AP) -- Spain's Socialist government approved new conditions governing research with embryonic stem cells Friday, allowing scientists to investigate using frozen embryos while seeking cures to diseases such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and diabetes.

The measure was approved after a weekly cabinet meeting and announced by Deputy Prime Minister Maria Teresa Fernandez de la Vega and Health Minister Elena Salgado.

"It's an important step for investigation with stem cells, which is one of the most promising fields to fight incurable illnesses," said Salgado in the press conference after the cabinet meeting.

The bill will allow research with stem cells after approval has been given by parents to use remaining embryos obtained through in-vitro fertilization and which have been frozen for more than five years.

Researchers will also need the approval of a commission that will study each case individually.

The bill also states that parents must renounce any possible financial benefits that might result from such research, including possible patents.

Many scientists believe that stem cells, which can potentially grow into any type of human tissue, may one day be used to treat a series of diseases.

In July 2003, the former conservative government of Prime Minister Jose Maria Aznar authorized the use of embryonic stem cells for research but imposed many restrictions on the use of frozen embryos and forbade investigation with embryos that were more than five years old.

"It's all about making things easier for scientists to research with stem cells," said Fernandez de La Vega. "It's pure common sense," she added.