Professor Emily Jackson chairs major bioethics report on neural organoid research

Professor Emily Jackson has chaired a new Nuffield Council on Bioethics report examining the ethical and governance challenges raised by neural organoid research.

Neural organoids are small, stem cell-derived models that mimic aspects of brain development and function. The report highlights the significant potential of this research to advance understanding of neurological disease, while also raising important ethical questions as the science develops.

The report calls for stronger governance and coordinated best practice guidance for researchers, alongside greater public engagement and updated oversight frameworks for emerging biotechnologies.

Professor Jackson said: “Neural organoids hold enormous promise for understanding the brain and improving human health, but there is a clear need for coordinated best practice guidance, ongoing review and public engagement to ensure this field continues to develop responsibly.

Guidance proposed by the Working Group will help fill an immediate governance gap, giving greater clarity to individuals involved in this research and helping reassure the public that neural organoid research operates within agreed ethical parameters and safeguards.”

Read the full report, Neural organoids: Ethical and governance considerations, on the Nuffield Council on Bioethics website.