Scientists from around the world will gather to share and discuss developments in the field of stem cell research and gene editing and therapies at the ESGCT/ISSCR meeting “Changing the Face of Modern Medicine: Stem Cells & Gene Therapy” at the Firenze Fiera Congress Center in Florence.

Fetal tissue research has made major contributions to our understanding of biology and the development of new medical technologies, including vaccines for many diseases that have saved millions of lives. The ISSCR is providing a portfolio of examples showing how the use of fetal tissue has led to therapies that have saved lives as well as ways in which fetal tissue research continues to be necessary for medical advances.

The ISSCR opposes the REGROW Act, which would allow certain cell and tissue-based therapeutics to be marketed without first providing rigorous evidence of safety and efficacy. If passed, this legislation could negatively impact the development of stem cell therapies, the integrity of the emerging regenerative medicine market, and the health and safety of people using stem cell products approved under this Act.

The ISSCR today underscored the need for careful oversight and regulation of stem cell research at every stage in the process of developing therapeutic products for patient use.