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Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research
| Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation Position Statement on Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research, 2008 The potential of human embryonic stem cell research (hESC) to help us better understand and treat diseases and disorders has been demonstrated in animal models since 2001. Stem cells have the capacity to become any cell in the body without being able to develop into a complete human being; they are immortal and seem to be able to divide without limitation; and they can be genetically manipulated with great ease, which gives them enormous therapeutic utility. Given the scientific and medical benefits that are likely result from this research, the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation (CDRF) supports the responsible pursuit of human embryonic stem cell research. There are at least three basic opportunities presented by embryonic stem cell research. First, it could lead to the development of innovative replacement or transplantation therapies for diseases and disorders such as spinal cord injuries, diabetes, heart disease, and Parkinson's disease. Second, hESC research can provide a deeper understanding of how organisms, including human beings, develop that will enable scientists to better elucidate ways the body might repair itself. And third, stem cells can be used as a surrogate in the screening and testing of drugs. On August 9, 2001, the Bush Administration announced that federal funds could be used to support research using selected human embryonic stem cell lines, approximately 78 lines. Today, the NIH Human Embryonic Stem Cell Registry lists 21 lines as being available. It is clear that the number of lines currently available is well short of what is necessary to vigorously advance this research. CDRF recognizes that responsible stem cell research involves the careful orchestration of scientific and ethical issues and it believes that the 2007 Amended National Academies of Science 2005 Guidelines for Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research strike a proper balance. The three 2007 year-end publications that report studies reprogramming human skin cells to revert back to what appear to be human embryonic stem cells (called IPS, induced pluripotent stem cells) has electrified the field of stem cell research. They also underscored the very real need to continue push forward on all fronts. The early promise of the IPS technology is far from being fully realized and much remains to be learned from the study of embryonic stem cells. Therefore, CDRF adds its voice to those of the many other research institutions, organizations and scientists who have called for a relaxation of the August 2001 guidelines. CDRF believes that the responsible, unfettered pursuit of stem cell research is the surest, most direct way to the development of rational therapies for many diseases and disorders. Stem Cell Links: International Society for Stem Cell Research National Institutes of Health Coalition for the Advancement of Medical Research Institute of Medicine's Guidelines for Embryonic Stem Cell Research |