Washington University supports the safe and ethical use of human stem cells, including human embryonic stem cells (hESC), for scientific inquiry by its investigators and research community. Guidelines have been developed to support investigators and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Embryonic Stem Cell Research Oversight Committee (ESCRO) provides oversight and guidance on human stem cell research at Washington University.
ESCRO approval is required for:
- All research using hESC or materials derived from a human embryo, including hESC-derived neural progenitors and other hESC derivatives;
- Transplantation of non-embryo derived human pluripotent stem cells (hPSC) including human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) or their derivatives into animals; or
- Experiments in vitro designed or expected to yield gametes (oocytes or sperm); and
- Any research proposing to generate new hESC lines.
The public may request a copy of Washington University’s Annual Report on Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research by contacting the Office of Research Integrity & Ethics, MSC 1054-87-1600, Washington University, 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, or by emailing orie@wustl.edu.