Regulating the stem cell industry: needs and responsibilities.

This article discusses the regulation of the stem cell industry. Topics covered include why stem cells have attracted scientific, clinical and public interest, the global proliferation of clinics and associated businesses offering stem cell-based interventions, and the failure of high-income countries to regulate the stem cell industry. Also mentioned is the role of global organizations, particularly the World Health Organization (WHO) in regulating and containing the stem cell industry.