Use of stem cell lines to require government approval

SEOUL, Dec. 31 (Yonhap) -- The government said Thursday it will require its
people to seek official approval before using or providing embryonic stem cell
lines, seen as a promising tool to treat incurable diseases.

The rule will take effect starting Friday as part of efforts to enhance
transparency in dealing with stem cell lines and ease bioethical disputes while
facilitating data sharing among researchers, according to the Ministry for
Health, Welfare and Family Affairs.
Scientists say that embryonic stem cells have the potential to develop into other
kinds of cells that could possibly be used to treat chronic ailments such as
heart failure, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
Stem cell research, however, has also been a cause of controversy in many parts
of the world as some say the research constitutes killing in the name of saving
suffering patients.
South Korea was caught in the global spotlight for its stem cell research after
now-disgraced researcher Hwang Woo-suk claimed that he succeeded in cloning human
embryonic stem cells. He was later found to have fabricated lab data,
misappropriating state research funds and illegally purchasing human eggs.
"The ministry's latest move is aimed at putting creators of stem cell lines under
government management following ethical and scientific examinations to stave off
possible ethical disputes down the road and enhance international credibility for
related research," the ministry said in a statement.
(END)