EDITORIAL
More stem research would be appropriate

If the passing of Ronald Reagan rekindles the national effort to promote and advance stem cell research, it would be a lasting and fitting legacy for the former president.

Reagan suffered from Alzheimer's disease, one of the more promising potential targets of stem cell therapy.

But research that might lead to a cure for Alzheimer's and many other diseases is going slowly because of severe federal restrictions on stem cell work.

Most scientists and ethicists are absolutely clear on this: They oppose stem cell research that would lead to the creation or cloning of humans.

But stem cells need not become "human" to fulfill their scientific promise.

Now, in the wake of Reagan's passing, a bipartisan group of senators has asked President Bush to ease federal rules on stem cell research.

It has long been said that Bush deeply admired Reagan and what he stood for. It would be a fitting memorial, then, to acknowledge his struggle by opening the doors to the research that may one day allow others to escape the ravages of Alzheimer's.