New Stem Cell Guidelines Proposed by NIH

Last Friday, NIH released draft guidelines for embryonic stem cell research funding that will establish policy and procedures and “will help ensure that NIH-funded research in this area is ethically responsible, scientifically worthy, and conducted in accordance with applicable law,” NIH Acting Director Dr. Raynard Kington wrote in a statement.

President Barack Obama signed Executive Order 13505 on March 9, lifting restrictions on federal funding for research on embryonic stem cells. The draft guidelines would allow funding for research using human embryonic stem cells that were derived from embryos created by in vitro fertilization for reproductive purposes and no longer needed for that purpose.

The public is welcome to comment on the guidelines within 30 days following their publication in the Federal Register, slated for April 24. Instructions for submitting comments can be found online. Specific questions about grant funding should be directed to NIH.