Embryo Stem Cell Researchers In Japan Call For Streamlined Review Process
This article was originally published in PharmAsia News
Executive Summary
A panel on embryonic stem cell research convened by Japan's Council for Science and Technology has advocated elimination of national reviews to accelerate stem cell research in the country. Currently in Japan, an embryo is considered a "life bud" by the administration and requires cautious handling. To obtain permission to conduct research, stem cell researchers must go through a two phase review - first with an ethics committee within the research facility and then a national committee review. The panel calls for a revision so the new guideline will track the International Society for Stem Cell Research, which requires review only from a research facility. (Click here for more-Japanese language