Source: European Parliament
Research activities involving human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) under Horizon Europe can be funded, subject to strict conditions in accordance with the ‘Statement of the Commission on ethics/stem cell research — Artikel 19’[1].
The scientific evaluation experts must ascertain that there is a necessity to use these cells to reach the scientific objectives. The conditions on the use of human embryos (hE) are even stricter. No activities leading to embryo destruction can be undertaken.
All proposals with hE/hESCs undergo an in-depth ethics assessment by independent ethics experts, to ensure compliance with relevant EU and international regulations, including the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union and Horizon Europe Regulation.
All resulting requirements become contractual obligations. Proposals that put at risk human embryos or promote eugenic practices are ineligible.
Each proposal is subjected to the approval by the Member States (Programme Committee) via the Comitology procedure. Only then are the contracts concluded.
The Commission and funding bodies closely monitor ethics deliverables during project implementation. Relevant project information is publicly available via the human pluripotent stem cell registry[2] and EU CORDIS[3].
hESC-based models provide unique insights into early human development or disease pathways, enabling the creation of advanced, human-relevant in vitro systems that offer greater predictivity than conventional animal models.
Responsible and tightly regulated use of hESCs contributes to improving human health and supports the principle of human dignity by upholding strict ethical safeguards and by advancing medical innovation that better respects and protects human life.