Embedding a comprehensive ethical dimension to organoid-based research and resulting technologies (Policy brief 2)

Related Initiative

What is this about?

The 2nd HYBRIDA Policy Brief offers a policymaker-oriented overview of the project’s core deliverables related to organoid research governance. It highlights the Operational Guidelines developed to improve standards in organoid research and related technologies, as well as the supporting documentation that accompanies them. The brief also describes the Code of Responsible Conduct intended for researchers, and proposes a supplement to the European Code of Conduct for Research Integrity (ECoC), specifically tailored to handling human biological samples and associated data. Furthermore, it explains HYBRIDA’s approach to addressing three types of uncertainty identified in the project’s early phases: conceptual (ontological), knowledge (epistemological), and regulatory uncertainty. The brief links these uncertainties to the proposed recommendations and governance tools, demonstrating how they work together to support robust, ethically informed, and legally sound policy strategies for organoid research.

Why is this important?

This second brief is crucial because it translates research outputs into actionable guidance for policymakers, bridging the gap between science, ethics, and regulation. By detailing practical tools like the operational guidelines, code of conduct, and ECoC supplement it provides concrete mechanisms to manage emerging challenges in organoid research. Clarifying how the project addresses key uncertainties helps regulators understand where gaps remain and where intervention is necessary. Moreover, integrating these governance tools with ethical oversight and integrity norms promotes consistency and public trust. Overall, it helps ensure that advances in organoid research proceed responsibly, under coherent policies that balance innovation with rights, safety, and societal concerns.

For whom is this important?

Policymakers and RegulatorsResearch Ethics Committees and Institutional Review BoardsResearchers and Research InstitutionsFunding Agencies and EU Research ProgramsIndustry and Biotech Developers

Other information