Facts behind the stem cell debate
| There are 230 different types of cells in the human body. Stem cells – which are found in days-old human embryos, umbilical cord blood and certain adult tissues – have the potential to grow into almost anything. |
| President Bush banned new embryonic stem cell experiments soon after he took office, although he allowed researchers to continue studying the embryonic stem cell lines already in existence. |
| The embryonic stem cell bill, which Rep. Michael Castle, R-Delaware, co-sponsored with Rep. Diana DeGette, D-Colo., has 201 co-sponsors. It needs 218 votes to pass the House. |
| A similar bill, offered by Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, has similar bipartisan support and is expected to pass the Senate. |
Associated Press