Guidelines for Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research

Since 1998, the volume of research being conducted using human embryonic stem (hES) cells has expanded primarily using private funds because of restrictions on the use of federal funds for such research. Given limited federal involvement, privately funded hES cell research has thus far been carried out under a patchwork of existing regulations, many of which were not designed with this research specifically in mind. In addition, hES cell research touches on many ethical, legal, scientific, and policy issues that are of concern to the public. This report provides guidelines for the conduct of hES cell research to address both ethical and scientific concerns. The guidelines are intended to enhance the integrity of privately funded hES cell research by encouraging responsible practices in the conduct of that research.

Table of Contents


Front Matter
Summary
1 Introduction
2 Scientific Background of Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research
3 Addressing Ethical and Scientific Concerns Through Oversight
4 Current Regulation of Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research
5 Recruiting Donors and Banking hES Cells
6 National Academies Guidelines for Research on Human Embryonic Stem Cells
References
Glossary
Abbreviations
Appendix A: Compilation of Recommendations
Appendix B: Committee Biographies
Appendix C: Workshop Agenda and Speaker Biographies
Index
Appendix: 2007 Amendments to the National Academies’ Guidelines for Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research