Japanese attitudes toward human brain organoid research: broad support amid ethical concerns

Introduction: Human brain organoids are three-dimensional neural structures derived from human pluripotent and tissue stem cells. As the ethical implications of this research have sparked significant debate, it is essential to gauge public opinion to ensure that the research aligns with societal values and ethical standards. Methods: To understand public perceptions of human brain organoid research, we conducted an online survey targeting Japanese individuals. The survey explored expectations, concerns, and agreements regarding this type of research. Results: The results from 326 participants revealed high expectations especially for applied and clinical research but significant ethical concerns, particularly regarding unanticipated risks and commercialization. Moreover, comprehension test scores showed a weak positive correlation with support for various research objectives, indicating that informed individuals may view this type of research favorably. Discussion: Japanese citizens are generally supportive of human brain organoid research, yet various ethical concerns are identified as well. Our findings indicate that to foster responsible innovation in this field, public engagement and informed discussions are essential, which will dispel citizens' misconceptions and ensure that their views are meaningfully incorporated into research practices and future regulations.