ASH Executive Committee Approves New Policies on Stem Cell Research and Nuclear Transfer

The ASH Executive Committee recently approved revised policy statements on stem cell research and nuclear transfer (NT).

The stem cell research policy states that the Society is excited about the scientific potential of all avenues of stem cell research—particularly human embryonic and adult stem cells—and ASH plans to continue to build the necessary consensus among policymakers that both research avenues need to be pursued vigorously to ensure the health and well-being of all Americans. In addition, the Society endorses efforts to expand the list of human embryonic stem cell lines that are eligible for federal research funding and supports the position that the large number of fertilized embryos that are currently left over in clinics from pregnancy procedures are a rich, genetically-diverse source of potential human embryonic stem cell lines. Finally, the Society pledges its enduring commitment to move the science of stem cell research forward to help patients.

ASH’s NT policy urges support for NT research while backing efforts to prohibit the cloning of a human being. The Society believes that NT research is a critical tool for scientists to fully develop the promise of stem cell research and will allow scientists to create new embryonic stem cell lines that advance the full investigation of the genetic causes of disease. Moreover, ASH ardently opposes human reproductive cloning and actively supports efforts to implement a complete ban on the practice. As a final point, ASH reaffirms its vigorous support for NT research while firmly denouncing any attempts at cloning a human being.

The Society plans to use the new policies in its advocacy efforts in Congress and with Executive Branch agencies, such as the National Institutes of Health.

If you have questions, or need more information, please contact ASH Government Affairs Manager Jeff Coughlin at (202) 776-0544.

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