Germany relaxed the law of germ cell research

The German parliament on April 11 voted by easing regulations on embryonic stem cell research, which has been controversial for a long time due to moral issues.

Under current law, researchers in Germany are prohibited from creating embryonic stem cells for research, but allow the import of foreign-generated germ cells before January 1, 2002. At the April 11 meeting, with 346 votes and 228 votes against, the lower house (Bundestag) decided to extend this time to 1-5.

German scientists believe that embryonic stem cells produced before 2002 are no longer usable and suggest studying recently created cells to learn more about disease.

Germ cells are thought to help cure many different diseases (Photo: AFP)

Science Minister Annette Schavan, Justice Minister Brigitte Zypries and Chancellor Angela Merkel of the faction support this proposal. According to Minister Annette Schavan, this regulatory easing will help Germany develop advanced technologies related to stem cells and compete with other countries.

Meanwhile, the head of the Christian church declared against human embryo experiments, arguing that such embryos have the potential to become complete humans.

Researchers believe that stem cells can help develop treatments for diseases like Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, diabetes and many other diseases.