Bioethics on human embryonic stem cell research : a matter of which we deliberated in the ES Council(The 15th Annual Meeting (2003))

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  • ヒトES細胞研究における生命倫理 : 我々は何を審議してきたか(第15回日本生命倫理学会年次大会シンポジウム)

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Human embryonic stem (ES) cells that has captured the attention of scientists worldwide is an "almighty cell" that differentiates into various types of cells through repeated cell differentiation. A successful attempt to freely control the growth of ES cells means that sufferers of a wide range of diseases could be treated via regenerative medicine. Meanwhile, ethical questions have been raised over the study of ES cells as it uses fertilized eggs that have the potential to create a human being. In Sep. 2001, the Education, Science and Technology Ministry drew up a set of guidelines for ES cell research. The guidelines impose severe restrictions on the producers of ES cells, and also emphasize the importance of considering the rights of donors of fertilized eggs. Moral status of the embryo is one of the major ethical debates aroused by ES cell research. Some views of embryo status are based on religious beliefs. According to the Catholic Church, embryos have a right to life from the moment of conception and therefore all research involving ES cells in immoral. The issue of producing ES cells through the destruction of embryos has not generated major opposition in Japan. In reverse, the brain death has not been accepted at national sentiment in 6 and half years after the registration. The difference between Japan and other countries concerning ES cells could probably be explained from the viewpoint of differences in the cultural backgrounds.

Journal

  • Bioethics

    Bioethics 14 (1), 47-51, 2004

    Japan Association for Bioethics

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