Waxahachie Daily Light, April 13, 2007 AUSTIN - Texas risks missing out on billions of dollars in economic benefits and tens of thousands of jobs if it does not create a more welcoming atmosphere for stem cell research, according to a study released on Thursday by advocates of the emerging field. Larry Denner, an associate professor at the University of Texas Medical Branch-Galveston, said biotechnology in Texas won't take off unless the state lets scientists know they are free to pursue such research. Denner, who focuses on the use of adult stem cells in treating Type 1 diabetes, said it's hard for him to lure researchers to his lab when they're afraid that lawmakers could clamp down on their work at any time. "We've earned that reputation for better or worse, and it definitely complicates trying to recruit top-notch scientists," he said.