Human embryonic stem cell treatment of diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is treated with daily insulin injections or with insulin pump. An alternative treatment is to transplant new insulin-producing cells derived from human embryonic stem cells. Transplanted devices detect blood sugar levels and regulate the secretion of insulin.
Making such a treatment available for patients presupposes commercialization. This project investigates the ethical and legal framework for commercializing human embryonic stem cell treatment of diabetes. We will study issues of embryo donation, informed consent and patentability, but also philosophical questions about how to view embryos, stem cells, and products derived from human embryonic stem cells.
Aim
The project aim is to provide ethical and legal analysis and guidance concerning development of commercial beta-cell replacement products for type 1 diabetes, using cells derived from human embryonic stem cells.
Participants
- Mats G. Hansson, Professor of Biomedical Ethics
- Olle Korsgren, Professor of Transplantation Immunology
- Anna-Sara Lind, Associate Professor of Public Law
- Bengt Domeij, Professor of Private Law
- Jessica Nihlén Fahlquist, Deputy Senior Lecturer in Medical Ethics
- Pär Segerdahl, Associate Professor of Philosophy
Funding
Time table
2017-2019.