Stem Cell Research Oversight (SCRO)

Oversight

University researchers may conduct research for therapeutic purposes using human embryos or human stem cells if they comply with applicable federal and state laws and regulations, and University policies and procedures.

The Stem Cell Research Oversight (SCRO) Panel reviews the scientific merit and ethical justification of proposed research involving human embryos and embryonic stem cells and determines whether to approve, require modifications to, or disapprove the research.

OBAO maintains a complete record of all human embryonic and embryonic stem cell research conducted at the University and all human embryonic stem cell lines derived or obtained by University researchers.

Research Subject to SCRO Panel Review

1. Human embryonic stem cells and cell lines (hESCs), whether derived from IVF embryos or through somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT).
2. Human embryos, except for clinical care provided to patients undergoing reproductive treatments.
3. Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) or other human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) for purposes of making or contributing to an embryo, germ cell (oocytes or sperm), or mixed human-animal entity.
4. Mixed human-animal entities containing cells derived from human embryos or SCNT, or containing human iPSCs.

Research Not Subject to SCRO

1. Use of nonpluripotent human stem cells in research.
2. Use of human iPSCs or approved hPSCs other than contributing to an embryo, germ cell, or mixed human-animal entity.

Application Process

Use eProtocol to create and submit an application within the BAO tab, making sure to answer all questions regarding SCRO. Please contact the OBAO for any applicable supplemental documents (New Derivations, Procurement, and Chimeric documents). Changes to approved SCRO protocols should be submitted through an amendment in eProtocol.

University Policies & Procedures

• Conducting Research with Human Embryos or Pluripotent Stem Cells
• Preparing to Conduct Research Involving Human Embryos or Embryonic Stem Cell Lines Ineligible for Federal/State Funding
• Project Administration for Research Involving Human Embryos or Embryonic Stem Cell Lines Ineligible for Federal/State Funding