Nuffield Council on Bioethics new policy briefing identifies top ethical challenges for research using neural organoids

The Nuffield Council on Bioethics (NCOB) has published a policy briefing note identifying key ethical considerations raised by neural organoid research and areas where further ethical guidance, policy and regulatory decisions could be needed. We now intend to facilitate further discussions with policy makers, scientists, ethicists, and publics to shed more light on the most pressing challenges in this area of research and what is needed to tackle them. Neural organoids are small, lab-grown structures, made from human stem cells. They are used to model different aspects of the developing brain and could have important applications in the future, improving our understanding of a range of brain conditions and treatment options. Our new policy briefing note offers a balanced and evidence-based indication of where ethical challenges need to be explored and addressed at pace with those involved in shaping the future of this research.

Published on the 27th of March 2024. Read the full news here.