The ISSCR: Moving the Field Forward Together

Abstract

A recent article in Time magazine stated that stem cell research “has joined global warming and evolution science as fields in which the very facts are put to a vote, a public spectacle in which data wrestle dogma.” No field of scientific endeavor would wish to be subjected to the trial-by-media to which stem cell biology has been in recent years. Yet despite the political and ethical issues, and the scientific controversies that have beset certain aspects of stem cell research in recent years, the field as a whole continues to flourish. The evidence lies in the ongoing increase in rate of publications covering all aspects of stem cell biology.We continue to forge ahead, yet it is important to remember that the considerable enthusiasm and excitement shared by those of us who work in stem cell research must be tempered by an appreciation of the magnitude of the responsibility we as scientists have—both to the field in which we work and to the public who support our research efforts. Great care must be taken in how we engage with the public. Raising expectations too high carries some grave risks, not the least of which is a potential backlash if stem cell research fails to deliver on some of the “hype” that surrounds this field. The long-term promise of stem cell research is vast, but the immediate barriers of translational research are unquestionably high.The challenge therefore is to promote a climate supportive of stem cell research while maintaining realistic expectations of potential benefits. Managing the delicate balance between “hype and hope” is no small task, but it is one that we as scientists engaged in the field of stem cell research collectively share responsibility. Each of us has at one time or other experienced the passionate desire of the community to see the implementation of stem cell-based clinical therapies. We share that desire and moreover bear much of the responsibility for ensuring that the much-desired progress along the basic-translational-clinical axis occurs. However, it is essential that the rationale, design, and eventual clinical application of any such therapies are based first and foremost on sound science; the consequences of engaging in poorly conceived and potentially harmful clinical applications of stem cells do not need to be enunciated. In the desire to translate our research to the clinic, we must not run but rather take careful, well-considered steps. It is here that the ISSCR, with the underpinning principle of commitment to professional and public communication and education, will continue to be a major resource in the quest to deliver on the promise of stem cells.In closing, my term as President of this society comes to an end at a time coinciding with my move to Houston, Texas, USA and the inevitable challenges I face in establishing myself in a very different “niche” (Figure 1Figure 1). I am delighted to be able to pass on the presidency to the eminently capable hands of Dr. George Daley. Like me, George will be able to call upon an outstanding team of people at the ISSCR, including Executive Director Nancy Witty, Administrative Director Michael Hagedorn, Manager of Committees and Outreach Ryan Detwiler, and Science Editor Heather Rooke, who will continue to work closely with the ISSCR leadership to ensure that the ISSCR continues in its laudable mission to represent and serve the burgeoning field of stem cell research.Figure 1Paul J. SimmonsView Large Image | View Hi-Res Image | Download PowerPoint Slide