One of New Hampshire Sen. Jeanne Shaheen’s granddaughters was at the White House when President Barack Obama formally signed an executive order opening the door for more stem cell research.
Shaheen says she has long favored embryonic stem cell research, but the issue became personal when granddaughter Elle was diagnosed with diabetes.
Obama on Monday reversed a ban on federal funding for the research.
Experts say stem cell research could eventually mean better treatments or even cures for conditions including diabetes, Parkinson<s, multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injuries.