Minority stem cell lines needed

ANN ARBOR, Mich., Feb. 1 (UPI) -- University of Michigan researchers say they could improve ethnic diversity in stem cell lines by prioritizing embryos donated by minorities.

None of the 47 most commonly used stem cell lines represent people descended from Africa, the Pacific Islands or populations indigenous to the United States, said Sean Morrison, head of the university's Center for Stem Cell Biology.

Embryonic stem cell research is being used to improve treatments for incurable injuries and diseases such as Parkinson's.

To date, stem cell research has derived its lines from human embryos created through in-vitro fertilization and in-vitro patients are disproportionately white, Morrison told the Detroit News in a story published Monday.

The university plans to accept human embryo donations from in-vitro couples who no longer need leftover embryos. Prioritizing embryo donations from minorities would help diversify the stem cell lines, said Morrison, who called it a social-justice issue.

Much, however, depends on Michigan lawmakers. Some who view embryonic stem cell research as immoral are backing bills to restrict the research, the News reported.