(5 of 5)
In "The False Controversy Of Stem Cells" [May 31], essayist Michael Kinsley argued for government-funded embryo research. He noted that fertility clinics regularly destroy far more human embryos than stem-cell research ever would and that getting rid of a microscopic cluster of cells is not tantamount to murder. Preliminary research that has been privately funded indicates that stem cells derived from human embryos have unique potential to help improve the lives of those who suffer from many terrible diseases. Since private foundations, clinics and drug companies are unaffected by government funding, stem-cell research is here to stay. But federal funds are necessary to ensure that new discoveries are widely shared and research is directed toward the greatest public good. President Bush must decide whether compassion for sick people clashes with his campaign promise to protect the unborn. SILVERIO A. BARROQUEIRO Guilford, Conn.
Kinsley referred to an embryo used in stem-cell research as a few dozen cells, a "microscopic dot." He stated that "the smallest insect is far more human in every respect except potential." But no microscopic dot of cells other than a fertilized egg is capable of becoming an embryo, a fetus, a child, a human being. I believe life begins at conception. As a person with a progressive, incurable disease, I am hoping for a cure for my affliction and for that of a family member who has early-onset Parkinson's disease. I believe a human child will die if I support embryonic stem-cell research that might find a cure. But by not supporting it, I know I am not contributing to the death of a child to prolong my life. Maybe the child who is not killed for stem-cell research will find cures utilizing other methods. JOE BOREK Langhorne, Pa.
Red Wine in a Pill
Your item "Recent Vintage, No Bouquet," on the health benefits of red wine and the antioxidant compound resveratrol [Feb. 16], stated that Longevinex, a company marketing wine supplements, is the only firm whose pills are made of real red-wine extract from France. Life Extension Buyers Club also sells a red-wine extract product made from organic French grapes. WILLIAM FALOON, DIRECTOR LIFE EXTENSION FOUNDATION Fort Lauderdale, Fla.