The United States pioneered embryonic stem cell research, first by isolating stem cells and then by providing millions of dollars for research. Since then, other countries from Singapore to Israel have flocked to support stem cell research as well. Advances in stem cell science hold promise for the treatment of many diseases and is regarded as one of the pillars of future medical research.
While the U.S. Administration pursues policies that slow research and are often counterproductive, other countries have pursued policies that lead to more progressive research climates. The United Kingdom in particular has emerged as a leader in stem cell research and regulation, funding British research as well as facilitating international collaboration. The current stem cell research and regulatory climate in the U.K. has been an evolution of parliamentary and scientific advisory activities over the past 30 years since the development of in vitro fertilization technology. The U.S. and U.K. can learn much from each other, not only through scientific collaboration, but also by comparing research practices and policies. The Center for American Progress and the British Embassy hope to encourage these conversations to facilitate increased research in both countries. Please join us and our distinguished panel of scientists and regulators from both the U.S. and U.K. for a lively discussion about the stem cell research climates in both countries: how they are similar, how they are different, and what each can learn from the other.
Conference Materials
Minding the Stem Cell Gap by Jonathan Moreno and Sam Berger
Comparing Stem Cell Research in the U.S. and U.K.
Stem Cells: What’s Next by Michael Werner
Decision Tree for Application for a Research License from HFEA
Licensing the Use of Human Embryos by the HFEA
North East England Stem Cell Institute
What is an Embryo? by Ann Kiessling
Eggs Alone by Ann Kiessling
Angela McNab’s presentation
Michael Werner’s presentation
Dr. Ann Kiessling’s presentation
Alan Charlton, Deputy Head of Mission, British Embassy
Dr. Ann Kiessling, Director, Bedford Stem Cell Research Foundation
Angela McNab, Chief Executive, Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), United Kingdom
Jonathan D. Moreno, Senior Fellow, Center for American Progress
Alison Murdoch, Professor of Reproductive Medicine, Newcastle Fertility Centre at Life
John D. Podesta, President and Chief Executive Officer, Center for American Progress
Michael J. Werner, President, The Werner Group