Stem Cell Focus Part Of New Harvard Major

Harvard University has approved a new undergraduate major focusing on stem cells and other related areas of biology, one day after President Barack Obama lifted federal restrictions on stem cell research.

The major - called Human Developmental and Regenerative Biology - also will include classes on human disease, experimental and human genetics and aging.

Harvard's Faculty of Arts and Sciences approved the major Tuesday.

Bill Anderson, a lecturer in stem cell and regenerative biology, says the major will allow students "to study biological processes through the lens of developing humans." He said stems cells would be a component of that.

Harvard has been one of the leaders in stem cell research, raising private funds to support the work.