The
International Society for Stem Cell
Research (ISSCR) is an independent, nonprofit organization established to promote
and foster the exchange and dissemination of information and ideas relating
to stem cells, to encourage the general field of research involving stem cells
and to promote professional and public education in all areas of stem cell
research and application.
To develop guidelines for the conduct of human embryonic stem cell (ESC)
research that address the international diversity of cultural, political,
legal and religious perspectives, the ISSCR assembled a task force composed
of experts in science and medicine, ethics and law from 14 countries.
The ISSCR
Guidelines for the
Conduct of Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research specify rigorous ethical standards
for scientists working with human ESCs, and seek to promote responsible,
transparent and uniform practices worldwide.
After intensive discussion held by international conference call and two
face-to-face meetings, the task force presented a draft document at the
4th ISSCR Annual Meeting in June 2006. Feedback was invited and received
from many individuals including the leadership of scientific societies and
colleagues with expertise in research oversight. Responders endorsed the
efforts of the society to promote responsible research practices and provided
constructive criticism that was valuable in preparing the final document.
To facilitate the translation of the guidelines into practice,
sample informed
consent documents for the procurement of materials for human ESC research and
a
sample material
transfer agreement are also available for download.
