Purpose, Policy & Guidance

Promoting Ethical Practices

The University of Washington (UW) established the Embryonic Stem Cell Research Oversight Committee (ESCRO), which exists to review and approve research involving human embryonic stem cells (hESC). The ESCRO Committee review ensures that both institutional and public concerns regarding sensitive ethical, legal, scientific, and policy issues unique to hESC research are addressed.

ESCRO Guidance and Policy

University Policy GIM-36 on Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research is the governing policy for UW hESC researchers and is based on the following guidance and policy:

• NIH Guidelines on Human Stem Cell Research
• Executive Order, March 9, 2009
• Fact Sheet on Executive Order, March 9, 2009
• National Academies of Science (NAS) Stem Cell Information Guidelines and Amendments
• International Society for Stem Cell Research

Standard Operating Procedures and Guidance

• SOP 003: Standard Teratoma Guidance

Additional Resources About Stem Cell Research

• NIH Human Embryonic Stem Cell Registry
  A registry of all federally approved hESC lines.
• Stem Cell Basics
  NAS link to helpful FAQs regarding stem cell basics.
• Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine (ISCRM)
  ISCRM houses the majority of UW researchers conducting hESC research. Their website lists good practices and information about current hESC research.
• Stem Cell Resources.org
  Stem Cell Resources.org connects world recognized scientists, doctors, government leaders, entrepreneurs, and bioethicists to life science educators who ultimately empower change in science education.
• University of Washington ESCRO Facts
  Fact sheet on oversight of human embryonic stem cell research at the University of Washington.