ELSI

ELSI

ELSI

ELSI

Decorative shape

Regenerative medicine holds immense promise, but with rapid scientific progress comes complex ethical, legal, and social questions. Understanding these dimensions is essential to ensuring that innovation advances responsibly and equitably.

Canadian researchers are at the forefront of exploring how emerging therapies affect patients, communities, and society—from issues of informed consent and equitable access to the regulation of unproven treatments and the rise of online misinformation. This work helps shape policy, strengthen public trust, and promote transparent communication about the realities and potential of stem cell and regenerative medicine research.

Through its support of ELSI research, the Stem Cell Network is helping ensure that Canada’s regenerative medicine ecosystem grows in a way that is ethical, evidence-based, and aligned with the public good.

Prof. Timothy Caulfield, University of Alberta, Alberta

Cycle 5, Round 1: Impact ELSI Awardee
Regenerative Medicine, Wellness Influencers, and Scienceploitation

The growing popularity of regenerative medicine (RM) has sparked a surge of online misinformation, particularly in the wellness industry. From anti-aging supplements to unproven stem cell therapies, wellness influencers are increasingly misusing RM science to promote products and lifestyles that can mislead the public and, in some cases, cause harm.

Prof. Caulfield’s project aims to uncover how RM science is distorted for commercial gain across digital platforms. His team will map the flow of misinformation, identify the influencers and platforms driving it, and explore the social forces behind this trend. The goal is to inform science communication, policy, and regulatory action—ensuring the public can better distinguish credible science from hype.

Working with partners like #ScienceUpFirst and BC Cancer, the project will produce a suite of public-facing resources, including a dedicated website, podcast, and policy recommendations to counteract misinformation and support informed decision-making.

“Misinformation around regenerative medicine isn’t just confusing—it can be harmful, exploiting vulnerable people and undermining trust in real science. Our work will shine a light on how these ideas spread online and help develop strategies to protect the public and promote evidence-based science.”