Stem Cell Banks: Reality, Roles and Challenges

Abstract

Human embryonic stem cell lines have the capability to develop into cells representative of the three germ layers of the human body, which has raised the possibility of exciting new opportunities for in vitro research and the development of therapies for the future. However, it is vital that in these pursuits researchers are aware of certain critical issues in sourcing cell lines to ensure that their work provides data of a high standard and does not lead to confusion and that any future use of the cells – such as clinical application – is not compromised by the conditions under which the cells are developed. Stem cell banks have been much discussed in the literature and would appear to have a significant role to play in this important area of endeavour. This chapter places the current development of stem cell banking against the history of bioresource centres and culture collections. It also identifies the different types and roles that stem cell banks may have and as a case study describes the particular remit of the UK Stem Cell Bank and how this influences its policies and procedures. The author goes on to explain the importance of careful development of cell line procurement procedures, the need for standardised banking protocols and the challenges for appropriate supply of pluripotent stem cell lines. In conclusion, the author outlines the importance of international collaboration between the developing network of stem cell banks giving examples of standards (e.g. www.stemcellfoum.org/) that may develop from such activity.

Appendix 1. Strategic Aims of the UK Stem Cell Bank

The mission of the UK Stem Cell bank is to assure the quality of stem cells for the scientific and clinical community and the strategy to achieve this will be to:

• “Focus on banking and supplying tissue specific and pluripotent human stem cell lines that are required, or are likely to be required, for stem cell research and development;

• Provide associated reference reagents and materials to assist with their growth and characterization;

• Store all embryonic stem cell lines submitted to the Bank as required by UK legislation;

• Develop and make readily available a repository of useful technical information to assist the stem cell R&D community;

• Implement and maintain quality assurance systems that are fit for...

  • Cell lines with significant potential for clinical development, to ensure as far as possible that they are developed in a way that will not compromise their future use for sustained human therapy

  • Other cell lines, to ensure that they are consistent, safe to use in research, and sufficiently well characterized to be of use to recipients.

• Maximize efficiency and minimize bureaucracy related to deposit and release of stem cells while ensuring compliance with steering group/other guidelines and legislative requirements;

• Provide expert training in technical matters relating to the growth and characterization of stem cells, including GMP cell banking;

• Carry out high quality scientific research on methodologies for...

  • Improving consistency and propagation of stem cells

  • Developing and improving diagnostic tools for stem cells

  • Improving in vitro safety tests for adventitious agents and pathogens

  • Preservation, storage and distribution of stem cells.

• Promote regulatory mechanisms that facilitate safe and effective development of stem cell therapies;

• Charge for materials and services fairly and appropriately to help defray costs.”

UK Stem Cell Bank Management Committee, May 2008