“As we have stated since 1997, the American Society for Reproductive
Medicine opposes any attempt at reproductive cloning of a human being.
Despite the assertions of progress made by some self-proclaimed cloning
experts, there is no scientific evidence to justify an attempt to clone a
human being. We urge the media, the public and policy makers to meet such
claims with skepticism rather than alarm, unless they are accompanied by
peer-reviewed scientific evidence.
We are also deeply concerned about recruiting patients to participate
in these efforts. Infertility can be an emotionally devastating disease.
Any effort that offers false hope to these patients is irresponsible and
unethical.
It is possible that some policy makers and advocates will want to use
the claims of irresponsible scientists to bolster their case for an overly
broad prohibition on scientific research. Somatic cell nuclear transfer
(SCNT) technology holds great promise, and research should be allowed to
continue into its uses for therapeutic purposes. ASRM supports legislation
to make human reproductive cloning illegal. However, we caution policy
makers not to be rushed into approving over-reaching legislation that will
criminalize valid scientific and medical research and the therapies they
might lead to."
ASRM, founded in 1944, has more than 8,500 members who are devoted to
advancing knowledge and expertise in reproductive medicine and biology.
ASRM-affiliate societies include the Society of Reproductive Surgeons, the
Society for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, the Society for
Male Reproduction and Urology, and the Society for Assisted Reproductive
Technology.