MRC holds firm on support for stem-cell research

The Medical Research Council has restated its commitment to funding stem-cell research in the wake of a controversial European Court of Justice judgment, which banned attempts to patent discoveries made from human cell lines. The full implications of the 18 October ruling are still being assessed but it is likely that blocking patents on work involving human embryonic stem cells will deter private investors from supporting the research. The MRC has confirmed its plan to spend £130 million over four years on stem-cell and regenerative-medicine research.