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 |