The EBiSC iPSC bank for disease studies

The European Bank for induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (EBiSC), a non-profit repository for storage, banking, Quality Control (QC) and subsequent distribution of research-grade human induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (iPSC) lines, has centralised iPSC lines generated internationally across >35 disease areas and made them available to users via the EBiSC Catalogue, for research use (cells.ebisc.org/). Comprehensive datasets are accessible prior to purchase detailing the disease background of the original tissue sample, background of iPSC reprogramming and cell line characterisation data. EBiSC also performs robust QC screening to ensure supply of reliable, well-characterised iPSC lines, compliant with ISO9001:2015 principles. Whole Genome Sequencing data for specific iPSC lines can be downloaded from the European Genome Archive, subject to application to the EBiSC Data Access Committee. The EBiSC Access and Use Agreement, required to be completed prior to shipping, can be downloaded from the website along with specific Cell Line Information Packs; together these documents clarify how EBiSC lines can be used for research and detail any specific Third Party Obligations and/or restrictions for use which may apply. A protocol for how to culture and monitor iPSC lines including implementation of routine cell line screening is also available. A second project phase will continue collecting iPSC lines generated internationally, provide iPSC derived differentiated products using improved automation strategies for upscaling and develop the current services provided by EBiSC, including iPSC reprogramming, gene-editing and characterisation.