Edward Kennedy, D-Massachusetts, who heads the committee, requested the names of the research groups who have human embryonic stem cell lines, information on where their research has been published, and details about proprietary rights and what ethical standards were used when the stem cells were derived.

CNN: NIH announces owners of stem cells

"It appeared that our proprietary information and intellectual property rights had been violated, " the letter stated.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Arguably, stronger patents and other intellectual-property rights that made it easier for innovators to keep their proprietary technology to themselves or charge more for licensing it would increase total innovation.

ECONOMIST: Economics focus