Our Policy Work

Promoting supportive policy and funding for scientific research, innovations and patient engagement

April 24, 2026 - Comment letter submitted to NIH relating to the assessment of the scientific utility of hUMAN EMBRYONIC STEM CELLS in NIH-Supported Research

RE: Response to NIH NOT-OD-26-031

In its January 23, 2026 notice (NOT-OD-26-031; the “031 Notice”), the NIH Office of Science Policy (“OSP”) requested information relating to “Reducing or Potentially Replacing Reliance on Human Embryonic Stem Cells in NIH-Supported Research".  In response to the 031 Notice, the two undersigned  affiliated patient advocacy not-for-profit organizations, the Regenerative  Medicine Foundation (“RMF”) and Healthspan Action Coalition (“HSAC”), are respectfully submitting this comment letter.

August 29, 2024 -  The THRIVE Act

In collaboration with The Kitalys Institute, HSAC is co-developing legislation for introduction in the U.S. Congress that will create a regulatory pathway at the FDA for healthspan-promoting products, including:

• Effective drugs and biologics (cells, tissues, and derivatives)
• Medical devices (implants, wearables, and others)
• Foods and targeted nutritional supplements

This landmark proposal will create new incentives and a streamlined approval process for products that demonstrably extend healthy lifespan.

August 17, 2024 - HSAC Response to US House Committee Proposal On NIH Reform

In June 2024, the U.S. House of Representatives Energy and Commerce Committee, chaired by Cathy McMorris Rodgers, released the proposal, “Reforming the National Institutes of Health: Framework for Discussion.” The framework invited all stakeholders to submit comments and suggestions by August 16, and our organization  Healthspan Action Coalition (HSAC) responded with a 25-page letter, including references and errata in its final form.

the overarching goal of extending the healthspan

In response to the call for a holistic life stage perspective, we call for the inclusion in all NIH grant applications specific questions about how a proposed line of research supports the overarching goal of extending the healthspan. Consideration of this issue should be included in the grant-review process, and this is confluent with the Framework’s stated desire for a more whole-life approach to disease research.

The Healthspan Action Coalition invites you to join with other members of the patient, clinical, research, and industry communities to express your support today.

Demonstrate your leadership and show your support.

Why Join the Healthspan Action Coalition

In the absence of a supportive legal and regulatory environment, the promises of cell therapies and regenerative medicine will be delayed, thereby prolonging the anguished wait of those in need of lifesaving treatments and cures.

The Healthspan Action Coalition and the Regenerative Medicine Foundation have a track record fostering a supportive societal framework for advancing scientific research and accelerating regenerative medicine.

Our Previous Work (highlights)

In 2004-2005 Regenerative Medicine Foundation (at the time called Genetics Policy Institute) built and led a global coalition that defeated a proposed United Nations treaty that would have banned stem cell research worldwide. The grassroots coalition attracted many notable patient advocates, including Christopher Reeve.

In 2010-2012 our organization submitted amicus curiae (“friend of the court”) briefs in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia and the Court of Appeals, supporting federal funding for embryonic stem cell research in Sherley v. Sebelius, a case challenging President Obama’s Executive Order and National Institutes of Health (NIH) guidelines. (Read pdf: GPI brief, GPI and CAMR brief)

Today we continue this essential work in partnership with Bipartisan Policy Center and other respected, nonpartisan organizations.

If you are interested in more details, or would like to discuss ways to foster a supportive legal and regulatory environment for Healthspan Action and regenerative medicine, please contact us.