The debate about research on human embryonic stem cells will also occupy politicians and scientists in 2008. What is your view of the course of the debate?
Last year, the issue of stem cell research was already intensively discussed in the media and also in the German Bundestag. I expect a continuation of this debate in 2008 and hope that the objective arguments will continue to be heard. We can expect different cross-party motions to be debated and decided in the Bundestag this spring. I personally anticipate a revision of the Stem Cell Act.
In your opinion, what new scientific insights are influencing the current debate about Germany’s Stem Cell Act?
Papers have recently been published by Japanese and American research groups that show it is possible to treat skin cells so that they re-assume the properties of embryonic stem cells. Firstly, these results confirm the importance of research in this area. Secondly, it is clear that the new results would not have been possible without research on human embryonic stem cell lines. We will continue to need these cell lines for a time as the “gold standard” that enables us to correctly characterize reprogrammed body cells.
The use of human embryonic stem cells is the main focus of criticism. Do you have any sympathy for the view that the fusion of the egg and sperm cell represents the beginning of life, in which we must then not interfere?
Naturally, I have understanding and respect for views that differ from my own, especially when it comes to the ethical appraisal of scientific findings. However, there are also different opinions, for example, about the point at which emerging life merits complete protection. We must debate this question within its overall context, which entails not only the problems of the protection of life but also an “ethics of healing”. The freedom of research also plays a role in this debate.
Many countries treat research on human embryonic stem cells in a much less restricted way. How do you explain to your international colleagues why there is apparently a greater need for debate in Germany?
You’re right. Even if the Stem Cell Act is amended, Germany will continue to be among the countries with the most restrictive laws governing stem cell research. That has something to do with the legal tradition in Germany and with German history, but also with society’s intensive interest in this subject. In addition to the Stem Cell Act, Germany also has the Embryo Protection Act, which prohibits any manipulation of human embryos. Generally, this legislation has proved its worth so that the opinion is expressed in scientific circles that the Embryo Protection Act should not be changed. I try to explain this general context and the specific German situation to my foreign colleagues.
What represents a possible solution for Germany?
Any amendment of the Stem Cell Act will also be a compromise. A central issue in the debate is the modification or abolition of the deadline. At the moment, German scientist are only permitted to use cell lines that were produced abroad before the 1 January 2002. It is important for German researchers that this deadline be abolished or that it is at least moved back to a later date.
Prof. Dr. Jörg Hinrich Hacker
The biologist has been Vice President of the German Research Foundation (DFG) since 2003. He teaches molecular infection biology at the University of Würzburg.
