Will regulation determine the science agenda? A look at hESCs

Given the significant controversy over human embryonic stem cell (hESC) isolation and research, regulation of such work around the world has proceeded in an uncoordinated manner. In general, advances in science cause a need or desire for regulation; however, it has been the opposite for hESC research--regulation and policy have set certain boundaries for scientific research and defined other research questions. This is especially evident in the USA, where federal funding policies have engendered specific research towards novel methods for isolating such cells that do not require destruction of human embryos. Due to the multiplicity of national policies, it will be almost impossible to reach global consensus in the near future. Nonetheless, this paradigm of regulation leading science may have significant implications for future research projects. Changes in hESC policy in the short term will influence longer-term research potential.