Can I propose research on human embryos derived from ART?
It depends. NIH can only support research that does not conflict with the proscriptions described in the Dickey-Wicker amendment to NIH’s appropriations. Generally, the proposed research must not involve any invasive assessments of human embryos, cannot involve eggs that have been previously exposed to sperm, and cannot harm or destroy human embryos. You may propose research on eggs that have not been exposed to sperm, noninvasive studies on discarded culture medium, and noninvasive microscopy and assessments of human embryos. While outcome studies are not a priori excluded, each protocol will need to be evaluated on an individual basis to ensure that the proposed research adheres to the current guidelines.
