ISSCR Statement on the Importance of Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research

Recent news accounts have questioned the validity of a paper describing the derivation of eleven patient-specific stem cell lines (Hwang et al., 2005, Science 308: 1777-1783), and the authors have retracted the paper. Science has provided information related to this publication at http://www.sciencemag.org/sciext/hwang2005/#section_news-coverage.

The controversy that surrounds the first reported isolation of patient-specific human embryonic stem cells is unfortunate and tragic. Although stringent peer review strives to ensure the accuracy of published research, the ultimate validity of scientific breakthroughs must be established through replication of data. We have witnessed how subjecting published research to intense scrutiny can ensure truth and accuracy in science.

Human embryonic stem cells remain invaluable research tools with enormous promise for medicine, and it is critical that scientists continue their research into the derivation of such cells, including those from patients with specific diseases. The ISSCR is organizing a task force composed of representatives from the international research, legal, and ethical communities in order to recommend a set of guidelines for conducting human embryonic stem cell research. Thus, the public can be reassured that this vital avenue of medical research will be pursued with prudent ethical, legal, and scientific oversight.

Posted: December 19, 2005