Use of Human Cell/Tissue for Medical Research : Its Ethical and Legal Basis

Abstract

There still exists in Japan a persistent feeling which looks use of human cell or tissue for medical study as against human dignity. But such study serves people’s life, health and welfare. It is really for human dignity. At present, we do not have the law which applies to such study directly. In order to promote this kind of study in proper way, we should make clear and explicit rules, considering the existing laws, such as Act Concerning Dissection and Preservation of a Dead Body (1949), and Act Concerning Organ Transplantation (1997).