Stem Cell Researches and Its Issues in the Context of Medical Criminal Law

Abstract

Purpose: It is medically predicted that some types of stem cells, which have the potential to transform into different cell types and renew themselves, can transform into all cells in the human body under appropriate conditions. Studies since the middle of the 20th century have shown that these cells can be used in the treatment of various diseases. However, stem cell studies obtained using human embryos have brought some legal and moral problems. The study aims to deal with stem cell studies in the context of medical criminal law and to point out the possible solutions by considering the legal situation in Turkey in comparison with the solutions offered in the laws of different countries. Method: In the study, first of all, the concept of stem cell, its types and classifications are explained, and then the main legal problems on this subject are examined. Finally, legal regulations related to stem cell studies in the laws of various countries and Turkish law were discussed, and evaluations and suggestions were made regarding these. Findings: Although there are some international legal regulations on embryonic stem cell studies, the regulations and approaches of countries towards this problem differ. It has been concluded that there is a need for certain legal regulations regarding stem cell studies in Turkey. Originality: Legal regulations of various countries regarding stem cell studies have been tried to be classified by this study, and suggestions have been made recently in the light of current developments on the subject.