The uncertainty and social controversy surrounding stem-cell research has discouraged many biotech companies and investors from embracing the technology.

For any new technology there is always controversy and there always some fear associated with it. I think that's just the price of being first sometimes.

Our research team made patient-specific embryonic stem cells and we have the technology to produce them.

Part of the concept of the RD&D (research, development and demonstration) leases is not only to prove the technology but also the economic viability of the technology.

What's happening now is that a lot of the technology and research to go to Mars are being put off for the purpose of getting to the moon, which was just supposed to have been a training ground for Mars. The means is becoming the end.

That was 31/2 years ago, and the controversy has only increased over time.