For Dr. Jack Mosher, assistant research scientist at the University of Michigan center for stem cell biology, passing Proposition 2, which would permit embryonic stem cell research, is a no-brainer. Unlike adult stem cells, which tend to be partially specialized - a brain stem cell will likely generate more brain stem cells - embryonic stem cells could give rise to all cell types.

Mosher said embryonic stem cells are derived from embryos from fertility clinics that are either in excess of those needed for fertility treatments, or are otherwise unsuitable for said treatments.

"It's those embryos only that we would be talking about using to drive new lines of embryonic stem cells," he said, adding that those unused embryos are currently thrown away. Under current Michigan law, while they

can be discarded, they can't be used to drive new lines of embryonic stem cells that might one day treat or cure Parkinson's, diabetes or spinal cord injuries.

Proposition 2 would change that. Mosher said scientists in Michigan are restricted to using federal money on only 16 lines of embryonic stem cells- most of which come from a single fertility clinic in Israel- and that these lines have several problems. First, they're grown on mouse cells that helps support the embryonic stem cells. Mosher said this makes them unsuitable for transplantation into humans, because they carry the risk of transmitting mouse viruses.

Second, the 16 lines have limited genetic diversity. Mosher said scientists can use embryonic stem cells to understand how diseases develop, and potentially screen drugs that might treat these diseases. However, the current lines they have access to are unsuitable for that purpose.

Contrary to claims by the opposition, Mosher emphasized that proposition 2 is not tied to any taxes; likewise, cloning-which is illegal in Michigan- isn't part of the proposal. He added that embryonic stem cell research is highly regulated.

Robin Stephenson, life sciences information director at U of M, believes the opposition is purposely trying to scare and mislead people. She called the opposition ads particularly offensive to both researchers and those individuals whom the potential cures could help.

Can embryonic stem cell research really help people with certain injuries and diseases? Mosher believes some animal trials indicate it could. He said mice with experimentally induced type 1 diabetes can have their glucose levels restored and treated by embryonic stem cell-derived therapy.

"The same for animal models that have undergone stroke or heart disease," he said. "There are a number of experimental animal proof of principal studies that show these are useful in that context." Stephenson said passage of Proposition 2 also has an economic benefit. She cited a recent report by Wayne State economics professor Allen Goodman which states that more than 770,000 Michigan residents are afflicted with serious diseases and injuries that could be treated through embryonic stem cell research.

"Potential benefits from stem cell enhanced treatments that reduce healthcare costs by as little as 1 percent would reduce treatment costs by almost $80 million each year," Goodman wrote. "Over 30 years, these reductions could save $2.3 billion." He also wrote that a 1 percent increase in biotech employment due to stem cell research would lead to approximately 443 new jobs, with a payroll increase of $32 million per year.

Mosher reiterated that the embryos that could be used to derive embryonic stem cells would be discarded in any case; and that using them to find cures and save lives is a very pro life position. If the amendment passes, it will become law 45 days after the election.