August 17, 2023

expert reaction to perspective piece proposing a refined legal definition of an embryo

A perspective piece published in Cell provides an ethical framework for human embryology with embryo models.

Dr Helen O’Neill, Lecturer in Reproductive and Molecular Genetics, UCL, said:

“This paper serves as a timely reminder that even biological definitions have a shelf-life, especially in the context of evolving technologies that allow us to bend biology.  A series of publications have challenged the central dogma of embryology and what can be defined as life, or indeed what should morally be considered protected.

“The paper puts helpful context to the evolution of embryo models, the accompanying legislation and the series of definitions suitable for each embryonic stage.”

Prof Alison Murdoch, President of the BFS (British Fertility Society), said:

“This is paper will be critical in the planned review of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act 1990.  The major focus of the HFEAct regulates the creation and use of human embryos for fertility treatment and basic scientific research is only a minor part of the legislation.  The definition of what is, and is not, an embryo is no longer fit for the purpose of research regulation.  Imprecise definitions generate uncertainty and inhibit important research on early human development.

“The HFEAct is based on the Warnock Report 1984 which was primarily a philosophical and moral review of proposed clinical and scientific procedures.  Alternatively, the implication of this paper is that legislation can now be based on an understanding of the science and placing this within an ethical framework.  Further discussion is needed to agree practical definitions based on scientific knowledge that are consistent within the moral reasoning that successfully underpinned the Warnock Report.”

Sarah Norcross, Director of PET, said:

“This is a thought-provoking contribution to ongoing discussions about stem-cell-based embryo models – in particular, thinking through how these models should be categorised, and how their use in research should be governed.

“The latest Guidelines from the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) already set out very useful concepts and distinctions, in relation to this field of research.  But with the science advancing rapidly, and human embryo models becoming ever more sophisticated, further consideration is warranted.

“Answering the question “What is an embryo?” can be a surprisingly complex and subtle business.  The answer might depend on whether you’re a scientist, a doctor or a lawyer, and also on what country you’re in.

“The authors of this paper are sensitive to these various aspects, and they have some interesting ideas about how the definition of an embryo could be refined.  Not everyone will agree with the authors’ suggestions, but many will agree that we need more of this sort of thinking, ranging across different fields of expertise.

“The project Governance of Stem-Cell-Based Embryo Models (G-SCBEM) is currently developing a recommended governance framework for UK research involving embryo models.  Papers such as this one, and the Guidelines from the ISSCR, all add to the rich body of material that G-SCBEM is taking into consideration.”

‘Perspective: An ethical framework for human embryology with embryo models’ by Nicolas C. Rivron et al. was published in Cell at 16:00 UK time on Thursday 17 August 2023.

DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.07.028

Declared interests

Prof Alison Murdoch: “I have no conflict of interest.”

Sarah Norcross: “PET is a charity which improves choices for people affected by infertility and genetic conditions.

Sarah Norcross and PET are involved in the Governance of Stem-Cell-Based Embryo Models project, as is one of the coauthors of the new paper in Cell.”

For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.