"Embryonic stem cell research has failed to produce success in even one human experiment," says Gayle Atteberry, executive director of Oregon Right to Life. Ms. Atteberry, in responding to Secretary of State Bill Bradbury's roundtable discussion about stem cell research today, explained some of the known problems with embryonic stem cell research. "One of the most substantial problems with embryonic stem cells," explained Atteberry, " is their unpredictability in growth. Many times they grow so rapidly they cause tumors in patients who have volunteered for medical research."

In contrast, Ms. Atteberry explained the success of adult stem cells: "Currently there are over 45 diseases which have been cured or treated with adult stem cells. Adult stem cells can be found in bone marrow, blood, fat, and even umbilical cord blood."

Embryonic stem cells can only be obtained by killing a living human embryo. Using existing frozen embryos at in vitro fertilization clinics is often suggested as a way to use the frozen embryos for the "greater good". Over 97% of embryos stored at the clinics are being held for the parents' future use. Scientific demands of embryonic stem cell research will quickly use up the supply of frozen embryos. That is why scientists are energetically pursuing cloning of human embryos.

"Embryonic stem cell research, which kills a human embryo and has so far remained completely unsuccessful, is unnecessary," said Ms. Atteberry. " We already have an alternate way for research, a way which does not involve killing human embryos, and a way which is already working-adult stem cell research."