Connecticut encourages stem cell research

The signing of a landmark embryonic stem cell research bill, by Governor M. Jodi Rell, capped a year of lively development in Connecticut bioscience, when the state's biotech and pharma companies, its major research universities, and its network of bioscience support organizations all reported significant progress.

The new stem cell law, which establishes a research fund of $100m while setting guidelines for research, catapults Connecticut into the vanguard of states that are taking active steps to encourage research in what many see as one of the most important avenues for bioscience investment currently on the table. The research holds promise for developing new therapies, and with President Bush set to veto any expansion of federally funded embryonic stem cell research, it will be up to the states and private investors to fund additional research in the area.

'This fund is a catalyst, intended to attract other investments and generate opportunities for growth,' said Governor Rell. 'The growth of the bioscience industry in Connecticut has been critical to our state's economy. We intend to build on that leadership role.'

At year end 2004, bioscience organizations directly employed more than 18,000 people in Connecticut, a 15% increase over five years; boasted nearly 5.6 million square feet of laboratory space; and organizations spent more than $4.3bn on operations within the state, a 65% increase over five years.

Research at Yale University and The University of Connecticut supplies a steady stream of 'know-how' and technology to the bioscience industry, and Connecticut consistently ranks within the top five states in patents issued, and the top ten nationwide for monetary value of National Institutes of Health grants received.