How severely is German research limited by the comparatively strict rules of the Stem Cell Act?
The main stumbling block is the deadline rule that only allows us to use human embryonic stem cell lines produced abroad before 2002. At that time, human ES cells were routinely cultivated together with animal cells. As a result, contamination with animal pathogens cannot be ruled out. Furthermore, enzymes were used that lead to a significant increase in chromosomal changes. For these reasons, first-generation cell lines are inferior in quality to those available today. Research results achieved with these cell lines are only of limited use and are becoming less and less internationally comparable.
What impact does that have on international collaboration?
The restrictions are huge. Since German scientists cannot do research on their European neighbours’ cell lines produced after the cut-off date, they largely work in isolation within EU research groups. The strong integration of international cooperation projects gives rise to enormous organizational problems: German scientists can only assume leadership duties in joint projects with ES cells by accepting unforeseeable legal uncertainties because they might come into contact with research work by their foreign colleagues involving more recent cell lines. Bizarrely, Germany provides massive support for the EU’s Framework Programmes for Research and Technological Development which means it is also promoting projects on ES cells abroad that would be illegal in Germany. Just changing the deadline rule would not be enough. Any amendment of the Stem Cell Act must also abolish the legal penalties and the foreign production requirement.
What are your best arguments for a relaxation of the current rules?
Today, human ES cells still represent one of the most attractive cell populations in biomedical research. The practically unlimited propogation and pluripotence of these cells opens the prospect of being able to produce the cells of the most diverse forms of human tissue in infinite numbers in the laboratory. It is already possible today to extract brain cells, cardiac muscle cells and insulin-forming cells in unlimited numbers and successfully use them in animal experiments. In addition, human ES cells offer fascinating prospects for disease research. Although sometimes claimed, the enormous reproduction rate and pluripotence of embryonic stem cells has not been equalled by any adult stem cell populations. Also and especially when it comes to new developments in the field of reprogramming adult cells, ES cells are of fundamental importance as a scientific instrument. As such, research on ES cells is indispensable for regenerative medicine. This research requires access to the best cell lines. Ignoring that means denying the country one of the greatest opportunities of modern biomedicine.
Do you have any sympathy with the arguments of those who are oppose this research?
I can understand the desire to strictly regulate this technology in order to prevent its misuse. People are also entitled to expect scientists to explain themselves: many of the fears stem from a lack of understanding of this complex subject. The outcome is extreme positions arising out of fears of supposed taboo-breaking. I have no sympathy with those who participate in the debate but do not know what they are talking about. If you want to engage in informed debate, you have to find out about the subject.
Prof. Dr. Oliver Brüstle
The neuropathologist is considered the pioneer of stem cell research in Germany. As Director of the Institute for Reconstructive Neurobiology at the University of Bonn he is researching cures for neuropathy.
