Washington D.C., May 28, 2021 / 17:03 pm
Two members of Congress this week criticized new guidance by a leading scientific organization removing prohibitions on research of human embryos more than 14 days old.
The International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) released new guidance on Wednesday, May 16, now calling for conversations among leading scientists, donors, and public officials on the possibility of conducting research on human embryos past 14 days.
Such discussions should include “the scientific significance” of such research, as well as “the societal and ethical issues raised,” the society said.
At the moment, it is currently standard policy to destroy embryos used in research before they reach the 14th day of development. After 14 days, the nervous system of the unborn child begins to develop.
“Should broad public support be achieved within a jurisdiction, and if local policies and regulations permit, a specialized scientific and ethical oversight process could weigh whether the scientific objectives necessitate and justify the time in culture beyond 14 days, ensuring that only a minimal number of embryos are used to achieve the research objectives,” the society said.
The ISSCR noted that “it is currently not technically feasible to culture human embryos beyond formation of a primitive streak or 14 days post-fertilization,” but added that scientific advances may make this possible in the future.
Rep. Chris Smith (R-N.J.) and Sen. Mike Braun (R-Ind.) both expressed their dismay at the updated guidance on Thursday, May 27.
“The ISSCR has shown an utter disregard for the value and dignity of human life,” said Smith.
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