In the light of the unfolding COVID-19 pandemic, there is urgent need for new therapies, particularly for critically ill patients. As legitimate clinical investigations, such as SARS-COV-2 vaccine clinical trials, ramp up, there has been a proliferation of unproven and untested interventions, including unfounded claims for “stem cell”-based treatments. The International Society for Cell & Gene Therapy (ISCT) strongly opposes the irresponsible offering of unproven cell-based interventions, especially in the context of such a serious pandemic.
We urge affected individuals and families to speak with expert medical professionals to obtain the most accurate available information. The ISCT Presidential Task Force (PTF) on the Use of Unproven and/or Unethical Cell and Gene Therapy website provides several resources on the legitimate clinical use of cell- and gene-based therapies for a variety of conditions.
About the International Society for Cell & Gene Therapy
Established in 1992, the International Society for Cell & Gene Therapy (ISCT) is a global society of clinicians, regulators, researchers, technologists and industry partners with a shared vision to translate cellular and gene therapy into safe and effective therapies to improve patients’ lives worldwide.
ISCT is the global leader focused on pre-clinical and translational aspects of developing cell and gene-based therapeutics, thereby advancing scientific research into innovative treatments for patients. ISCT offers a unique collaborative environment that addresses three key areas of translation: Academia, Regulatory and Commercialization. Through strong relationships with global regulatory agencies, academic institutions and industry partners,
ISCT drives the advancement of research into standard of care. Comprised of over 1700 cell and gene therapy experts across five geographic regions and representation from over 60 countries, ISCT members are part of a global community of peers, thought leaders and organizations invested in cell and gene therapy translation. For more information about the society, key initiatives and upcoming meetings, please visit: www.isctglobal.org, @ISCTglobal.
