US regulators have approved 13 new lines of human embryonic stem cells for use in scientific research. Can there be “ethical stem cells”? It sounds like oxymoron. But, that is what US is actually looking at. They are the first batches of embryonic stem cells – the building blocks of the body – that have been made available to US researchers in almost a decade. The move comes after President Barack Obama eased restrictions on federally funded embryonic stem cell research. Another 96 lines could soon be approved if they meet the ethical guidelines unveiled in July, US scientists said. Scientists hope to harness the cells to treat a variety of diseases, including injuries, cancer and diabetes.