World stem cell developments

A panel from Japan's ministry of Science, Education and Technology has approved the country's first stem cell research project using human embryos. Previous stem cell research in Japan has only been allowed to take place on imported embryo stem cell lines. The application was made by a research team from Kyoto University, who will harvest the stem cells themselves, distributing them to other Japanese researchers within a year.

In Australia, it appears that scientists have won their battle to be able to derive stem cells from human embryos left over from fertility treatments. John Howard, the Prime Minister, and state premiers are set to approve the research, reversing earlier cabinet opposition, following a campaign led by leading Australian scientists and cabinet members.

Singapore is also soon expected to decide whether it will allow embryonic stem cell research, following responses to a report from its Bioethics Advisory Committee last year that gave the research tentative support. The Bioethics Advisory Committee will now consider the feedback it has received, which comes from religious, medical and special interest groups, before making final recommendations to the country's government.