Stem-cell research
Novo Nordisk currently sees human stem-cell research with the potential for cell transplantation as the most promising approach to finding a cure for type 1 diabetes. At the same time, we recognise that the source of some stem cells - the human embryo - is controversial. That is why we maintain an open dialogue with stakeholders and publicly state our positions.
Novo Nordisk wants to extend its research on mouse embryonic stem cells to include human embryonic stem cells into mature insulin-producing beta cells, which can be further developed for transplantation. Human embryonic stem cells will only be used when it is not anticipated that the same scientific results can be obtained from the use of adult stem cells, and Novo Nordisk will only work with human embryonic stem cells derived from IVF treatment that are obtained with freely given informed consent. Novo Nordisk does not support IVF treatment for women, or the creation of human embryos, solely for research purposes.
Encouraging political decisions
Elected politicians must be the ones to make decisions on what applications are acceptable and what ethical limitations should be applied to the use of new technologies, such as the use of human embryonic stem cells. However, great differences exist between European countries concerning the state of legislation and control of research into human stem cells, and this is a cause for concern.
As a number of scientists are already investigating the properties of human stem cells, Novo Nordisk urges all countries to enact legislation to ensure that such research is properly regulated and controlled. Novo Nordisk finds cloning of human beings (reproductive cloning) unethical and supports initiatives aimed at a global ban on reproductive cloning.
In 2002, the Danish Parliament investigated the need for an ethical and political clarification on legislation regarding the use of human embryonic stem cells, from surplus in vitro-fertilised embryos. Novo Nordisk supported the Parliament in examining the issue and offered our perspective to the discussion. In May 2003 the Parliament decided to allow research on human embryonic stem cells for research purposes with the aim of obtaining knowledge that will improve the chances of curing diseases in human beings.
According to Danish law, any application to use human embryonic stem cells for such purposes must undergo an ethical evaluation. Novo Nordisk supports this decision, and fully complies with its constraints, respecting ethical concerns. Novo Nordisk also supports initiatives to regulate stem-cell research at the EU level and is following this process closely and providing input.
See Novo Nordisk’s position on stem-cell research.
Performance in 2004
The Danish decision paves the way for researchers to reach their goal of finding a cure for type 1 diabetes. Novo Nordisk is currently investing DKK 17 million in developmental biology and stem-cell research at the Hagedorn Research Institute in Denmark, the research facility owned by the company. The Hagedorn Research Institute is at the forefront of stem-cell research in diabetes, working closely both with the US National Institutes of Health (as part of the NIH-supported Beta Cell Biology Consortium) and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (as part of the JDRF Center for Beta Cell Therapy in Europe).
