ESCRO Committee

Applications in the field of cell therapy and innovative research programs in this area at Emory University have grown. It is important to remember that there are regulations and ethical guidelines in place that must be considered when embarking in research with human embryonic stem cells (hESC), Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (hiPSC), non-human embryonic stem cells (nHESC) or human fetal tissue.

The Emory University policy on the conduct of this research has been developed to provide guidance in complying with those regulations. To provide oversight when required, the Office of Research Administration established an Embryonic Stem Cell Research Oversight (ESCRO) Committee. ESCRO members are appointed by and serve as an advisor to the Institutional Official. The members of the ESCRO reflect the scientific, medical, and ethical expertise necessary to perform a thorough review.

For the use of human fetal tissue in research, Emory researchers should contact Research Compliance and Regulatory Affairs at researchcompliance@emory.edu. 

Below, please review the following information:

  • Emory Policy 7.81- Embryonic Stem Cell and Human Fetal Tissue Research Oversight
  • ESCRO Submission information: use the submission form to learn if you are required to submit your study to ESCRO, and if so, to submit your application. If you are exempt for review, the form will provide documentation for your records.
  • Chart for required approvals: a chart that helps you know when you need to report to ESCRO and other offices

Policy

Emory University has a policy that governs research with embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotential cells, and fetal tissue. The policy describes the steps that need to be followed when doing research with any of these cells or tissues.

Policy 7.81

ESCRO Submission

If review is required by a research sponsor or cell source, then the Emory ESCRO committee shall provide a review in accordance with the review requirements of the sponsor/cell source.

ESCRO Submission form

Who else should review?

You may have additional review requirements by the IRB, IACUC or EHSO.

Chart for required approvals

Attachments must include:

  • EHSO submisison and approval
  • Study protocol with a scientific description of the study design and research procedures. This should include the hypothesis to be tested as well as a general description of the methodology to be used.
  • Please also include a scientific rationale for why these cells are needed to answer the scientific questions.
  • Lay summary explaining the purpose and methodology of the study in lay terms. Please, include your analysis of any ethical implications that may arise for your study now or in the future.
  • If the research plan includes the creation of new lines, please contact us at researchcompliance@emory.edu for more information.
  • Proof of IRB/IACUC determination as to whether it constitutes human or animal stem cell research and their approval.