Group warns researchers not to overhype stem cells

In newly updated guidelines, the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) cautioned scientists against exaggerating benefits and understating risks when communicating ideas about stem cell research to the public. The group also called for further assessment of the risks of heritable gene editing in human embryos before clinical use of the technique is attempted.

ISSCR's guidelines encourage scientists and research institutes to promote "accurate, balanced" representations of stem cell research to the public, calling on scientists to approve publications of their findings before release. ISSCR also warned against distorting perceptions of clinical trial outcomes, particularly when significant results on secondary endpoints are emphasized over null results in primary outcomes. ...