A major financial boost, for a Wisconsin stem cell research firm. Governor Jim Doyle has announced $1 million in state funding for Stemina Biomarker Discovery , to develop ways to help drug manufacturers screen drugs for harmful effects. The Madison-based firm was founded last year by Beth Donley and UW-Madison's Dr. Gabriela Cizar. The one million dollars is a combination of state grant money and a low interest loan. Cizar said the award demonstrates the state's commitment to Wisconsin's leadership in stem cell research. Stemina will initially employ six to eight researchers working with stem cell patents held by the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation .
