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Oklahoma banking on adult stem cell research

The Oklahoman Editorial | Published: November 9, 2012 Comment on this article

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In the past legislative session, Enns worked to create a Cord Blood Bank in Oklahoma to provide a supply of stem cells for researchers — again, without embryo destruction. As a result, this year's state budget included $500,000 to launch that effort.

Enns, who has taught college courses on microbiology, is confined to a wheelchair due to an accident. Although a potential beneficiary of future stem cell therapies, his moral opposition to embryonic stem cell research led Enns to focus on alternatives. That's been to Oklahoma's benefit.

Thanks to Enns, Oklahoma could now be on the forefront of revolutionary medical advances that benefit patients worldwide.

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