The ethical review of hESC FP7 research projects

The group, however, acknowledged the political decision taken as the starting point for its recommendations, but emphasised that the ethical dilemma regarding the moral status of the human embryo and its use in research still persists both within the EGE members and the EU. Therefore, the group did not elaborate ethical arguments on hESC research as such, but worked on recommendations for FP7 ethics review of hESC projects.

The EGE recognised the need for promoting responsible research that is transparent, serves the public interest, respects Member State autonomy, preserves public trust, promotes international cooperation and requires the embedding of ethics within research practice. The group indicated that, in addition to the FP7 ethics rules already adopted in co-decision, among others the following considerations should apply to hESCs funded by the EU:

• FP7 hESC lines have to result from non-implanted IVF embryos;
• if alternatives to hESCs with the same scientific potential as embryoderived stem cells are found in the future, their use should be maximised;
• donors’ rights (in terms of health, informed consent, data protection and free donation) have to be protected and safeguarded.

The EGE also stressed the following needs:

• to maximise the use of hESCs banked in the European Registry on hESC research;
• to take concrete actions to stimulate public debate on this research sector.