On Tuesday 12 May, the Nuffield Council on Bioethics published proposals to address governance gaps in neural organoid research, calling for best practice guidance in the short term and a new approach to regulation of emerging biotechnologies in the longer term.
In response to the report, Becky Purvis, HRA’s Director of Policy and Partnerships said:
“We welcome today’s report from the Nuffield Council on Bioethics and its emphasis on the need for clear guidance on how research in this area can be conducted ethically.
“Neural organoid research is an emerging area of research. It comes within our remit if it involves people or their tissue. We do not regulate or govern the scientific or technical aspects. Our priority is health and care research being done in a way that people can trust. As this field progresses, we will continue to work with partners across the system to support clear and consistent approaches to governance.
“Ensuring transparent consent processes is a key part of this, so that people understand how their data and tissue may be used. In turn they can make informed decisions about taking part in research. We will continue to support and promote good practice in this area as research develops.”