For people who believe that one becomes a person at the moment of conception, no level of restrictions or assurances about stem-cell research will overcome their objections to it. President Bush, who is contemplating lifting the current ban on stem-cell research, cannot simply ignore a constituency that helped get him elected, but he would do well to listen to conservative, pro-life politicians who see this area of research as promising life-saving advances in a range of illnesses.

The stem cells in question come from excess frozen embryos at fertility clinics. The are especially valuable because they have the ability to differentiate into almost any human cell type, and so might be used to combat Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s, ALS, cancer or spinal cord damage. The National Institutes of Health last month reported that the cells are “capable of developing into more kinds of cells than previously imagined,” with the potential to produce a “dazzling array” of treatments.

For the minority of people who believe that these embryos be thrown away rather than, in their view, be misused to fight these diseases, adult stem cells or those derived from fat tissue provide as much promise as the in vitro fertilized eggs. But scientists, who have no reason to inflame a portion of the public, say that years of further research are needed before they could make conclusions about the use of the adult cells. The NIH seems to agree,

urging that both embryonic and adult sources of the cells be investigated.

Strongly pro-life Sen. Orrin Hatch has become an equally strong supporter of government support for stem cell research, which is not used for cloning purposes. Not long ago, he said, “I have searched my conscience. I just cannot equate a child living in the womb, with moving toes and fingers and a beating heart, with an embryo in a freezer.” Other pro-life senators such as John McCain, Connie Mack, Strom Thurmond and Gordon Smith have joined him in his support for the research. The issue challenges the assuredness that many pro-life believers held for when life begins.

Stem-cell research will go on with or without federal support – here and abroad – but its breakthroughs are less likely to occur as swiftly and it is less likely to be covered by strict standards proposed by the NIH without the federal support. President Bush must rely on his faith even as he listens to trusted advisers.

Given the large potential these cells hold for saving lives and their fate otherwise, the president should join with pro-life leaders who are willing to support scientific advancement even if it muddles religious certainties. The opportunities are too great to deny.