Science and politics in the regulation of human embryonic stem-cell research in Brazil

Abstract

This case study deals with the regulation of human embryonic stem-cell (hESC) research in Brazil. It aims to analyze the process that led to the authorization, in 2005, of the use of stem cells obtained from so-called supernumerary embryos for purposes of research and therapy. We argue that the pro-research lobby in Brazil had considerable success because it framed the issue by referring to Brazil's peculiar policy background in the fields of assisted reproduction and embryo research. Moreover, this group of actors strategically avoided associating hESC research with abortion, highlighting the humanitarian aspects of this kind of research, rather than the motto of freedom of scientific research. Finally, it was able to rely on the judgment of a fairly progressive Supreme Court, which was also sensitive to public opinion at a time of 'court activism' or the 'judicialization of politics' in Brazil. RésuméL'article est une étude de cas qui concerne la régulation de la recherche sur les cellules souches embryonnaires humaines (hESC) au Brésil. Les auteurs tentent d'analyser le processus qui a conduit à autoriser en 2005 l'utilisation des cellules-souches obtenues à

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“…Yet, following a complaint by the Catholic Church at the Brazilian Supreme Court, the authorization of the use of embryos for research purposes was suspended for three years. In 2008, a final verdict confirmed that the 2005 law was valid, and that hESC research could go ahead [45]. According to officials of ANVISA this threeyear deliberation delayed the development of effective regulation also for other types of stem cells [44].…”