Presentation Title: “ELSI program for the regenerative medicine: program development and issues”

Abstract:

There are two major research tracks in the field of regenerative medicine in Korea; human stem cell research and xenotransplantation. The ELSI activities of human stem cell research is relatively small compared with those of xenotransplantation. Human stem cell research itself became reduced after the notorious Dr.Hwang’s scandal in 2005. In addition, with the intense objection of Roman Catholic Church (and with some protestant churches), which has substantial political and social power in Korea, the human embryonic stem cell research became almost extinct. Accordingly, the ELSI program regarding the stem cell research met the same fate. However, Korea has supported big xenotransplantation research since 2004 and produced considerable outcomes. We have conducted numbers of ELSI activities regarding xenotransplantation research; nationwide survey, consensus conference, media conference, and others. With the launching of 2nd national xenotransplantation research project in 2023, the goal of which is human trial of solid porcine organ transplantation, the ELSI program should be oriented to new direction. In this presentation, I will introduce some of ELSI activities conducted regarding xenotransplantation research in Korea and new program for the research project of xeno-solid organ transplantation.