The Human Cloning Foundation said that human cloning research took a significant step forward with recent findings that human embryonic stem cells could help rats with spinal cord damage walk again.

"We are coming closer to the day when human cloning can help the paralyzed walk again," said David Madrigal, HCF spokesman.

Embryonic stem cells are formed from a one-cell DNA clone of the human who needs treatment. The cell is allowed to divide about six times and then the stem cells are harvested.

On Wednesday, the Journal of Neuroscience published a study saying human embryonic stem cells could help paralyzed rats walk again when used within a week of the spinal injury. The rats' walking ability improved two months later.

However, the study showed that rats that were treated 10 months after the injury had no benefit.

Madrigal said the study is a "breakthrough" and is among the first evidence that human cloning can help the crippled walk again.

The research study was funded by Geron Corporation, based in Menlo Park, California.

People can reach the HCF on www.humancloning.org. The Foundation is currently soliciting comments from human cloning advocates for a position paper for the U.S. Senate, which is considering legislation on human cloning