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The American Diabetes Association is extremely disappointed by the federal district court decision  yesterday blocking the federal government from funding research involving embryonic stem cells. 

President Obama’s Executive Order in March of 2009 assisted advancement of stem cell research by lifting existing restrictions on the use of embryonic stem cells, while maintaining strict ethical guidelines. Even prior to that Order, federal funding of stem cell research was permitted on a limited number of previously-existing stem cell lines.

“This is a major setback for medical research, in particular, research towards a cure for diabetes,” said Richard Bergenstal, MD, President, Medicine & Science, American Diabetes Association.  “This decision stands as a roadblock to research that has shown great promise in finding a cure for diabetes and treating its complications.”

Stem cell research has the potential to save and significantly improve the lives of the nearly 24 million Americans with diabetes who face its many complications including heart disease, amputation and blindness.  The American Diabetes Association has extensively advocated for stem cell research, which holds the promise of accelerating medical advancements in many fields.  “We will work with other concerned organizations to find a way to remove this barrier to scientific progress,” said Bergenstal.