Researchers develop pioneering Code of Practice for use of stem cell-based embryo models

A working group of researchers from across the UK, including Crick group leader Naomi Moris, has created the first-ever UK guidelines for the generation and use of stem cell-based embryo models in research.

The new SCBEM Code of Practice, published today, proposes clear guidance and oversight processes, to bring greater transparency and openness to the research and reassurance to the public.

Embryo models can be created in the lab and mimic aspects of early human embryo development, which could advance understanding of early human development and possible causes of infertility. These models are not the same as human embryos, but their use raises ethical considerations and is not regulated explicitly by existing UK law, which has created uncertainty for scientists and held back research.

Naomi Moris, head of the Developmental Models Laboratory at the Crick, said: “Stem cell-based embryo models are an incredibly exciting new experimental approach that will allow us to study human development at stages that have never before been possible. But as a new and rapidly advancing technology, they raise several ethical and regulatory challenges.

“Our group, including scientists, lawyers and ethicists, have now come up with a suggested Code of Practice to provide clarity about how embryo models should be used and regulated. It represents the first UK-based framework for such research and, while it will inevitably undergo update and revision as the technology advances, is likely to be the first step towards establishing more formal guidelines for researchers moving forwards.”

Key points of the Code

• The new Code of Practice sets out standards to make sure that research using embryo models is rigorous, upholds ethical principles and maximises the potential benefits. Key to this will be a dedicated Oversight Committee that will review each proposed research project.
• The Code recognises that there must be a limit to how long embryo models can be grown in the lab. However, many different types of embryo model are being developed, representing distinct developmental stages and developing at different rates, making it impossible to impose a single fixed limit. Instead, researchers are asked to provide clear justification of the length of their experiments on a case-by-case basis.
• The Code prohibits any human embryo model from being transferred into the womb of a human or animal, or being allowed to develop into a viable organism in the lab.
• The Code is not legislative, but the team proposes that it should be adopted by UK researchers, funders, research organisations, professional societies and publishers. Adherence to the Code will become an essential part of credible science, providing increased transparency and accountability for embryo model research.
• Given the rapid pace of research using embryo models, the Code will be reviewed regularly.

At the moment, the Code is voluntary,” adds Naomi. “But given that the document was written by a diverse set of stakeholders in the UK embryo model community, reviewed by many international researchers, and incorporates public feedback through a Public Dialogue that was held alongside the project, I am hopeful that it will be well-received and that researchers will make use of the improved clarity around what is expected of them when it comes to such experimental projects.”

Naomi and her team are bringing ethical discussions around the use of embryo models to the public at the Royal Society’s summer science exhibition this week. Visitors will be able to find out more about what stem cell-based embryo models are, what they are used for, and can give their opinion on where we should draw the lines moving forwards.

“We’d love to hear from as many people as possible about how they feel about embryo models, so please do come along and tell us what you think!” says Naomi.

Creation of the SCBEM Code of Practice (fully titled: Code of Practice for the Generation and Use of Human Stem Cell-Based Embryo Models) was led by Cambridge Reproduction - an interdisciplinary research centre at the University of Cambridge - in partnership with the Progress Educational Trust (PET) - a charity that improves choices for people affected by infertility and genetic conditions. The work was funded by the BBSRC, the University of Cambridge Impact and Knowledge Exchange fund, and UKRI Sciencewise.