A week after President Bush’s controversial decision to limit federal funding for embryonic stem cell research went against Harvard’s wishes, scientists and government relations specialists are trying to make the best of the situation.

In a national television appearance last Thursday, Bush announced that federal funding would be allowed only for work on existing embryonic stem cell lines.

Stem cells are the undifferentiated cells from which all specialized cells such as neurons derive. Scientists say that stem cells taken from early stage embryos hold the most promise for treating problems as diverse as diabetes and spinal cord damage.

According to Jane H. Corlette, acting vice-president for Government, Community and Public Affairs, it is still unclear what the impact of Bush’s decision will be.

Corlette said much will depend on whether the 60 cell lines that Bush said exist are viable.

If all 60 are viable and those under control of private enterprises are made available, one Harvard stem cell researcher said, the Bush plan would be a positive development.

“Given all of the provisos about availability, the decision should make things easier,” Chairman of the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology Douglas A. Melton said.

The National Institute Health reported that they have documentation for the 60 lines, but that they would not be releasing details at this time.