Informed consent and the use of gametes and embryos for research: a committee opinion

The ethical conduct of human gamete and embryo research depends upon conscientious application of principles of informed consent developed in the context of clinical research. This document explores these principles, which entail, for example, that investigations occur under Institutional Review Board oversight. This document also discusses the complexities in obtaining informed consent from the persons whose gametes or embryos are being used in research but were originally intended for reproductive purposes. This statement replaces the document of the same name last published in 2004 (Fertil Steril 2004;82:S251-252).