Regulation and governance
Stem cell policy
The MRC has a lead role in supporting stem cell research in the UK. The UK has a strict, but permissive, regulatory framework in place covering all forms of stem cell research which balances the need for governance and commercial development. This section contains information on some of the major policy issues relating to governance of stem cell research.
UK Stem Cell Bank
Funded by the MRC and the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council and located at the National Institute for Biological Standards and Control. The Bank stores ethically-approved, quality-controlled stem cell lines derived from embryonic as well as fetal and adult tissue, for use by approved scientists in the UK and overseas. It operates under a strict code of practice overseen by a high-level steering committee.
Further information: Using the UK stem cell bank
Steering Committee for the Stem Cell Bank and for the use of stem cell lines
An independent and high-level steering committee overseas the activities of the UK Stem Cell Bank and the use of human stem cell lines in the UK.
UK Code of Practice
All research involving the use of human embryonic stem cell lines is expected to comply with the Code of Practice for the use of Human Stem Cell Lines. This is a requirement for research supported by MRC funding.
UK Stem Cell Tool Kit
There are a number of regulatory agencies that have responsibilities in the areas of stem cell/tissue research and manufacture in the UK. The MRC has developed with the Department of Health an on-line UK Stem Cells Toolkit designed to guide human stem cell researchers through the UK’s regulatory structure. The tool kit enables researchers to develop a bespoke regulatory routemap specific to their research and/or product needs.
The Regulatory Support Centre
The Regulatory Support Centre (RSC) provides support and guidance for those conducting research with human participants, their tissues or data.
International Stem Cell Forum
MRC as a lead role in encouraging international collaborations through its chairmanship of the International Stem Cell Forum (ICSF) The ISCF was established by MRC in 2003, to bring together the UK and other countries actively engaged in stem cell research. The membership of the ISCF is comprised of representatives from 16 major funding organisations from across the world. A key objective of the ISCF is to harmonise and accelerate stem cell research activity and its application, and to improve global practice in stem cell research.