The 14-day rule refers to a guideline in the field of embryonic stem cell research that limits the cultivation of human embryos in vitro (in a laboratory dish) to a period of no longer than 14 days. The rule was established to address ethical concerns regarding the use of human embryos in research, as well as to prevent the embryos from developing beyond a certain stage where they may become capable of forming a nervous system and experiencing pain or consciousness.
In many countries, including the United States, the 14-day rule has been adopted as a legal or regulatory standard for embryonic stem cell research. Researchers are prohibited from continuing to cultivate embryos beyond this point, and must either destroy them or use them for other purposes, such as generating stem cells for research or medical treatments. However, some researchers and bioethicists have called for a re-evaluation of the rule, arguing that advances in technology and understanding of human embryonic development may warrant extending or revising the guidelines.
~~~Harsha~~~