Fetal tissue research plays a crucial role in combating and curing some of our most devastating diseases, including Alzheimer’s, ALS, diabetes and Parkinson’s.
This research also investigates viruses, such as Zika, that can cause severe to fatal birth defects.
How have scientists at Pitt used fetal tissue in their research?
Scientists at Pitt have used fetal tissue to better understand the efficacy and safety of certain treatments for HIV, AIDS and cancer. For example, by learning how the placenta protects the fetus against viral infections, researchers are able to keep more mothers and their babies healthy and safe.
How does Pitt obtain fetal tissue?
Tissue is obtained from repositories called tissue banks. The Pitt Biospecimen Core, which provides central support for Pitt research programs, receives all fetal tissues from UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital.
In a clinical setting, conversations about donating fetal tissue for scientific research can only occur after a patient has decided to terminate a pregnancy. This process is set by federal law, which requires a patient’s written consent for a donation of this kind.
Learn the facts and key points about fetal tissue research.
Further reading
- Coalition Statement in Support of Research Using Human Fetal Tissue, 2021
- Why we need fetal tissue research – Science Magazine, 2019
- Fetal tissue research like mine saves children’s lives. Banning it is dangerous. – Carolyn Coyne, Washington Post, 2019
- ISSCR Applauds Reversal of U.S. Policies Restricting Fetal Tissue Research - ISSCR, 2020
- Human Fetal Tissue: A Critical Resource for Biomedical Research
- ISSCR: December 2018 sign on letter to HHS Secretary Azar