From regulator frameworks to scientific publications: Bio-crossing from embryonic stem cell to somatic cells.

• In Event: "Life" beyond The Politics of Life Itself: Biopolitics

Abstract

As the research that drives stem cell therapy crosses the terrain of embryonic stem cells and moves towards cells derived and developed from somatic cells, we as research scholars should examine this form of “bio-crossing” of cellular forms. This “bio-crossing,” is only but a latest development in the science of stem cell research and therapy; however, it does become indicative of the fact that cellular science, is far from stabilizing anytime soon; but rather is in a perpetual state of movement and crossing(s) onto other terrains. For this paper, I look at the two forces that drive the latest crossing over from embryonic stem cell to somatic cells (both autologous and allogeneic) in India and its myriad implications for not only the science but also therapy seekers and providers. This crossing over can first be attributed to the regulatory frameworks within India that draw on global regulatory frameworks rather than local realities, which privileges “safer” forms of cellular research and therapy over embryonic stem-cell research. Second, this crossing over makes clear the impact of international scientific journals, which in and-of themselves are involved in multiple bio-crossings even before the first print reaches the readers. The international stem cell research community self-regulated and crossed over from embryonic to somatic cell therapy based on nature of benefits and safety of non-embryonic cells. The perpetual local and global bio-crossings of stem cell research and therapy allow for an exploration of how internal self-regulation and external state-regulation create and impact new cellular terrains.

Author

• Nayantara Sheoran, Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies