South Korean renowned stem cell expert Hwang Woo-suk, who made the first embryonic stem cells genetically matched to living adults, on Thursday admitted using ova donated by his two fellow researchers in his research.
In a depressed tone, the famous professor slowly delivered his apology to South Korean people and announced resignation as head of the World Stem Cell Hub at a press conference held at the Seoul National University (SNU).
The visiting professor of SNU also said he will step down from other positions at state-run and non-governmental agencies, but mainly focus on researching work.
Hwang admitted his two fellow female researchers donated eggs in 2003 under false names, when his epoch-making research suffered from shortage of human ova, reports Xinhua.
According to Washington Post, a national hero in South Korea, Hwang has recently been dogged by international allegations of ethical impropriety that have threatened to severely set back his work. Last month, Hwang launched the Seoul-based World Stem Cell Hub along with several leading scientists in a project aimed at seeking treatments for diseases now incurable.
But earlier this month, University of Pittsburgh biologist Gerald Schatten said he was pulling out of his association with Hwang, citing concerns about the way the group had obtained human eggs -- whose difficult procurement is typically one of the most vexing obstacles to large-scale &to=http://english.pravda.ru/science/19/94/377/14900_.html' target=_blank>stem cell research.
The South Korean government, which has staunchly backed Hwang, Thursday announced the creation of a new state-run ova bank with firm and closely monitored guidelines. Such a move would mark the first time a nation has taken such an official role in stem cell research, highlighting the scramble by South Korean officials to salvage their reputation as the world's leading center for such science.
As of Thursday, a total of 188 women had already officially pledged to donate their eggs to a network organized by a group of South Korean celebrities, politicians and citizen groups set up last week to help Hwang's team.
O.Ch.
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