Pluses and Minuses: How 17,000 Words Shape a $12 Billion Stem Cell and Gene Therapy Program

California's "Christmas Tree" research effort -- from affordability to mental health

In many ways, the California stem cell agency is easy to understand. It just gives away billions of dollars for research involving stem cells and gene therapies. But details matter along with priorities.

Last month, the state stem cell agency readjusted its priorities to maximize its impact. Today, the “stem cellists” at CIRM headquarters in South San F…