This report, from the National Research Council and Institute of Medicine, revises and updates previous guidelines on how to conduct research using human stem cells most responsibly. The Academies originally produced the guidelines to offer a common set of ethical standards for a field that, due to an absence of comprehensive federal funding, was lacking national standards for research. Following the initial release of the guidelines in 2005, a standing advisory committee was established to monitor and review scientific advances and determine any need for revisions.
Reporters can obtain copies by contacting the National Academies' Office of News and Public Information; 202-334-2138 or news@nas.edu. Advance copies will be available to reporters starting at 3 p.m. EDT on Thursday, Sept. 4. THE REPORT IS EMBARGOED AND NOT FOR PUBLIC RELEASE BEFORE 11 A.M. EDT ON FRIDAY, SEPT. 5.