From strict moral standards to ethical neutrality: a policy-guided shift in the patentability of human embryonic stem cells in China

Attitudes towards human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) in China have witnessed a significant shift in 2020 that can be attributed to China’s policy guidance. For ethical reasons, stricter standards are adopted to curb related regulations and patent licensing. Through the introduction of policies, some research on hESCs has been recognized as legitimate and feasible to a certain standard and scope. In the subsequent practice of patent examination, the dual influence of policy support and public interest has led to a shift in the examination standards of China’s intellectual property authority from “strict morality” to “ethical neutrality”, implying limited recognition of hESCs’ patentability. In view of the promotion of policy incentives for the transformation and application of corresponding research, there is considerable social demand to provide patent protection for research results. In this context, an adjustment of related regulations is illustrated in this revision, manifesting a partial shift in regulations towards a supportive stance consistent with policy.