that had already been created . But some researchers say those cells are not useful . `` The president believes medical problems can be solved without compromising either the high aims of science or the sanctity of human life , '' the White House statement said . `` We will continue to encourage scientists to expand the frontiers of stem cell research and continue to advance the understanding of human biology in an ethically responsible way . '' Watch a Harvard expert talk about what 's next in stem cell research '' `` This breakthrough provides further evidence that the most promising avenues of stem cell research are also the most ethical , '' concurred Sen. Tom Coburn , R-Oklahoma , a physician . `` Politicians should note that the scientific community is moving rapidly without the assistance of laws requiring the taxpayer-funded destruction of human life . '' He added , `` This breakthrough helps vindicate President Bush 's policy and his vetoes of Congress ' short-sighted and outdated approach to stem cell research . History will note the wisdom of President Bush 's refusal to set a dangerous precedent that could not be easily undone . '' And
-LRB- CNN -RRB- -- All sides involved in the controversy over the use of embryonic stem cells in research claimed vindication Tuesday after two teams of researchers reported having reprogrammed human skin cells to act like the stem cells , which have the potential of morphing into other cells and thereby curing disease . President Bush has twice vetoed bills that would have eased limits on funding for embryonic stem cell research . People who believe that life begins at conception liken the destruction of the embryonic stem cells to killing and therefore oppose their use in research . The new research , they said , shows that alternatives are available . `` By avoiding techniques that destroy life , while vigorously supporting alternative approaches , President Bush is encouraging scientific advancement within ethical boundaries , '' the White House said Tuesday in a written statement on the new research . Bush has twice vetoed bills that would have eased restrictions on the use of federal funds for research involving embryonic stem cells . Watch Bush state why he opposes the use of stem cells In August 2001 , he limited federal funding for embryonic stem cell research to lines