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Table 2 Generated study themes

From: Ethical challenges regarding the use of stem cells: interviews with researchers from Saudi Arabia

Sources of stem cell

Permitted resources

Adult stem cells

Pluripotent stem cells

Umbilical cord blood

Placenta

Aborted fetuses for therapeutic reasons

Spontaneously miscarried fetuses less than 120 days old

Forbidden

Fetuses aborted for a non-therapeutic indication

Spontaneously miscarried fetuses more than 120 days old

Informed consent

Importance of informed consent

Purpose of research should be mentioned

Withdrawal should be respected

Explanation is important and required

The IRB should review and approve the consent

Beneficence

Any use of stem cells should be beneficial

Potential benefits to others

Should use approved procedures

Transparency

False hopes may lead to negative consequences

Regulations

Following the international regulations related to stem cell research

Consideration of Islamic Laws (Fatwas) and Beliefs

Lack of the local regulation

Lack of adequate knowledge in researchers, and their need for training