Current projectReview

Stem cell-based embryo models

A rapid review project exploring the ethical and regulatory issues raised by research using human stem cell-based embryo models.

Research using stem-cell based embryo models offers the potential to further our understanding of early human development, including causes of infertility, miscarriage and developmental disorders. As the science advances, there is potential for embryo models to become increasingly similar to human embryos, raising ethical and regulatory questions.

This rapid review work forms part of our reproduction, parenthood and families priority area. The questions we are exploring include:

• Do these models raise specific ethical considerations and could they merit the requirement for special protections?
• Are current UK governance mechanisms suitable and sufficient?
• How might these governance mechanisms need to evolve as science advances and embryo models become more sophisticated?

We will publish recommendations for decision makers working in this area in November 2024.

Explore our work on reproduction, parenthood and families

Assisted and artificial gestation technologies, labour parenthood and the concept of family, access to reproductive technologies and health care and family forms.

View priority area