Conclusion without Truth

The Institute of Science and Chemical, or Riken, announced that it would not make further investigation on suspected thesis about stimulus-triggered acquisition of prulipotent cells. That meant putting a period on Riken’s assessment on whether STAP cell really exist or not. In expression of Japanese language, this is cutting tail of lizard, which will eventually reproduced naturally. The finding that was once expected to contribute to organic reproduction is now degraded to a key of life-prolonging effort for Riken.

Receiving dispute from Riken’s unit leader of STAP cell research, Haruko Obokata, Riken had been considering whether they would review their decision that her thesis had been based on false researches. The institute finally decided on Thursday not to investigate on it again and determined their view as Obokata was “guilty.”

The report of investigation says that manipulation on result of related experiment was intended one. It revealed that Obokata explained submission of thesis to Science magazine, after being dismissed by Nature magazine, as unrecognized. Science magazine is said to have noticed Obokata that the thesis was reorganized. Riken also did not change its recognition on fabrication of picture used in the thesis.

Riken established a disciplinary committee for the issue. It will release a conclusion on Obokata. According to Riken’s internal standard on false research, Obokata will likely be penalized with disciplinary dismissal or recommendation of voluntary leave. Obokara released a statement through her lawyer, which expressed negative surprise on Riken’s conclusion. She is considering suing Riken, seeking for preservation of her status as a scientist.

Most researchers have an impression that the investigation was too quick to get to the bottom of it. Some accused Obokata of a possibility of inserting another kind of pluripotential cells, which fundamentally undermine result of the finding. This suspicion must be cleared. On the other hand, a number of examples of false research, including one written by the chairman of investigation committee, were found during the committee had been discussing Obokata case. No one is satisfied with the investigation.

Obokata case actually harmed legend of Riken, which has been a top institute for scientific researches in Japan. But leaving those questions to maintain its reputation will erode credibility of Riken forever. Considering a common notion that scientists are someone who seek truths, Riken needs to continue investigation and conclude whether STAP cell exists or not. Otherwise, Japanese science cannot get rid of its incredibility.