Catalogue Overview
The process of banking a stem cell line is a lengthy process. Acquiring information on growth conditions, initial screening and production of a master cell bank and distribution stocks can take many weeks. Once completed, cells undergo further stringent quality control and safety testing. Thus the time from acceptance of a particular cell line by the UK Steering Committee to its eventual release can take a number of months. The UK Stem Cell Bank Catalogue of cell lines and stem cell related products is therefore divided into five sections:
Currently available stem cell lines are listed in section 1. New cell lines will be added to this section once they have undergone the required safety testing and cell characterisation studies.
Stem cell lines, that have completed the banking process and are currently undergoing QC testing, are listed in section 2 along with their expected release dates.
Stem cell lines approved by the UK Steering Committee and received (accessioned) by the UKSCB but have not yet been banked are listed in section 3.
Stem cell lines approved by the UK Steering Committee but not yet accessioned by the Bank are listed in section 4.
Section 5: Feeder cell lines and other products available from the Bank are listed in section 5.
Obtaining stem cell lines from the Bank
Researchers wishing to order embryonic stem cells from the UKSCB must first seek approval to do so from the UK Steering Committee.
To avoid delay, researchers are advised to complete all necessary transfer agreements while their application is being considered by the UK Steering Committee.
Information on the application process is contained in The Code of Practice for the Use of Human Stem Cell Lines. Application forms and Notes to Researchers on access to stem cells from the Bank are available here.
Ordering Other Products from the Catalogue
Researchers wishing to order products from Section 5 of the catalogue should download and complete the order form below. Please note that appropriate feeder cells will accompany any order for stem cell lines and need not be ordered separately.
Non-stem cell products order form
Charges for Stem Cell Lines
The UK Stem Cell Bank does not levy a processing charge on its stem cell lines as the financial support provided by the MRC and BBSRC currently covers operating cost. The Bank has developed a charging schedule, which may be applied in the future. The decision to provide stem cells free of charge is continuously under review. The Bank will charge the full cost of delivery. A pro forma invoice will be issued to researchers showing charges levied and charges waived. The proposed charging structure can be downloaded here.
Contacting the Bank
For further information on availability of cell lines contact:
enquires@ukstemcellbank.org.uk