Singapore: Life science experts in China have called for more effective regulation in the domain of stem cell treatments and research, including cutting-edge technology that is used for treating serious health conditions like cancers, Parkinson's disease and diabetes.

The challenges were recently discussed at a conference that was held as part of the Global Healthcare Services of the China Beijing International Fair for Trade in Services.

Mr Lu Shibi, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and a famous orthopedic specialist who pioneered stem cell therapy research in China, feels that if the government tightens the regulation, many research projects have to be suspended.

He said, "Stem cell treatment research in China faces a dilemma. If the government loosens regulation, many illegal practices will occur. That is because the current regulation issued by health authorities on stem cell therapy research is not up to date."

Mr Han Zhongchao, president, Institute of Hematology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, said that, "There are a lot of irresponsible researchers and institutes that abandon professional ethics and pursue only profits. But there are also a lot of researchers devoted to stem cell treatments research, because they want to help patients."