Emerging Technolgy

Stem Cells: The Global Competition

Mark A. Sealy

HCS-578

April 11, 2011

Qiana Amos

Stem Cells: The Global Competition

Stem cell research has gained global significance over the last fifteen to twenty years. In 2000 the Human Genome Project unveiled a rough draft of the genetic map of human DNA. Scientist now armed with a map of human DNA set forth on the quest to clone cells. Countries all across the globe are conducting research with stem cells in an effort to gain prestige, economic gains, and technological superiority for their county.

Countries Policies Effect Global Competition

When a country set policies that relate to scientific research and commercial applications of the related research, they have a direct effect on that countries ability to compete globally. Although several nations are involved in the research of stem cells, many countries have different regulations pertaining to the type of research that can be conducted and how the research material can be obtained.

Regulations in the European Union

In the European Union Human Embryonic Stem Cell (HESC) is permitted among its member states. However, it is illegal in Germany, Austria, Ireland, Italy, and Portugal. These restrictions relate only to HESC research and do not limit research using adult stem cells or umbilical cord stem cells.

Regulations in Many Other Nations

Many other nations have established policies that regulate HESC. Countries such as Japan, India, Iran, Israel, South Korea, Brazil, South Africa, China, and Australia have regulations that are supportive of HESC. However, most of Africa, South America, and New Zealand have regulations and policies that are restrictive and limit the research that can be conducted.

Policies of the United States

The United States is rather unique in the way that its policies are directed towards HESC research. The United States policy since 2000 established federal funding for HESC research. However, the...