There are more than 40 research institutes, hospitals and firms
involved in stem cell research in the country. And the Central
government has recognized stem cell use as a niche area of medical
research and initiated the process of promoting it by allocating funds
for infrastructure development and operational activities. Although stem
cell technology holds out huge potential as a science, it raises many
ethical, legal and policy issues which are of concern to the government
and the public. And that calls for a regulatory framework to promote and
develop this as a responsible science. But, no nation has notified a
set of rules including India to regulate this sector so far.
Subsequent to that, the health ministry had set up a National Apex Committee for Stem Cell Research and Therapy (NAC-SCRT) and an Institutional Committee for Stem Cell Research and Therapy (IC-SCRT) to regulate and oversee the activities of this sector. Institutions and investigators carrying out research on human stem cells must be registered with NAC-SCRT through IC-SCRT. This is the first step towards streamlining the stem cell research in the country.
A significant change incorporated in the revised document is that guidance cover only stem cell research, both basic and translational, and not therapy. That would mean any stem cell use in patients must be done within the purview of an approved and monitored clinical trial with the intent to advance science and medicine, and not offering it as therapy. Stem cells are still not a part of standard of medical care in India or elsewhere.
Subsequent to that, the health ministry had set up a National Apex Committee for Stem Cell Research and Therapy (NAC-SCRT) and an Institutional Committee for Stem Cell Research and Therapy (IC-SCRT) to regulate and oversee the activities of this sector. Institutions and investigators carrying out research on human stem cells must be registered with NAC-SCRT through IC-SCRT. This is the first step towards streamlining the stem cell research in the country.
A significant change incorporated in the revised document is that guidance cover only stem cell research, both basic and translational, and not therapy. That would mean any stem cell use in patients must be done within the purview of an approved and monitored clinical trial with the intent to advance science and medicine, and not offering it as therapy. Stem cells are still not a part of standard of medical care in India or elsewhere.
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