Biomedicum Stem Cell Center - Core facility services

Biomedicum stem cell centre (BSCC) is focused on human embryonic stem cells (hESC) and human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC). We provide technical help and training in the culturing of human pluripotent stem cells. We also offer core facility services for induction of patient specific hiPSC to academic and industrial clients. In addition we distribute locally derived human pluripotent stem cell lines to other researchers.

 

Contact persons:

Timo Otonkoski director
Ras Trokovic, iPS cells
Milla Mikkola, hESC  and stem cell bank
Karolina Lundin, Cell-IQ

1. Provision of human pluripotent cells
Human embryonic stem cells and human induced pluripotent stem cells derived
locally are provided upon request. A material transfer agreement has to be
made with the provider.

Links:
Human pluripotent stem cell lines

2. Generation of hiPSC from fibroblast cell line provided by client
BSCC offers generation of hiPSC from cells provided by the client. Currently the
method is based on retroviral transduction of the four “Yamanaka factors”
(Oct4, Sox2, Klf4 and c-myc) in fibroblasts. However, methodological development
is ongoing and in the future we may also be able to offer non-integrating methods
and use other cell types.  

Before iPS induction can be initiated from patient cells, the client needs to obtain
ethical approval for the experiment from the Coordinating Ethics Committee of HUS (Helsinki
and Uusimaa hospital district).

Basic characterization of the newly generated hiPSC clones is performed by the BSCC.

Links:

1. Timetable and protocol for induction of hiPSC induction
2. Basic characterisation of hiPSC

 

3. Continuous visualization of live cells

CELL-IQ is a fully integrated continuous live cell imaging and analysis platform. In
addition to phase contrast microscopy, the system includes live fluorescence imaging
with three different filters (blue, red and green).

The Cell-IQ is situated in room C515b, and the fee of 2 €/h/multi well plate is intended to cover the annual maintenance of the equipment. There are two plate positions available that can be used simultaneously, a booking schedule can be found
next to the machine. Analysing protocols can be made free of charge using the Cell-IQ Analysis program on the computers in room C515b and support is provided Chipman Technologies if required. Alternatively, custom made analysing protocols can be
purchased from Chipman Technologies.

 Link:

1. www.chipmantech.com

 

4. Training
BSCC offers training packages for researchers and industrial clients. Basic knowledge
and experience in aseptic lab work is required.

1. Basic
Suitable for the users without prior working experience with human pluripotent stem
cells
2. Intermediate
Suitable for the user with some knowledge in work with human pluripotent stem cells.
This package gives hands-on training in human pluripotent stem cell culture.
3. Advanced
Includes hands-on training in iPS cell induction, culture and characterization.

Links:

• MTA
• iPSC induction order form and price list

 

Page updated June 28, 2011
Webmaster Erika Weckström firstname.lastname [at] helsinki.fi