title: Centralized banks for human embryonic stem cells: a worthwhile challenge.
abstract: Centralized banking of human embryonic stem (hES) cells is an endeavor that can benefit individual research efforts and enhance international collaboration but is complicated by the fact that the science is rapidly evolving in an environment of heterogeneous laws, guidelines, and ethical standards. Written from the vantage point of regulatory professionals, this article provides an overview of the benefits of and challenges facing hESC banking enterprises in general with a focus on a global centralized banking effort.
authors.forename: P Pearl
authors.initials: PP
authors.lastname: O'Rourke
authors.forename: Melinda
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Abelman
authors.forename: Kate Gallin
authors.initials: KG
authors.lastname: Heffernan
mesh_terms: D018070:Biological Specimen Banks; D003625:Data Collection; D033041:Embryo Research / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D004622:Embryo, Mammalian / Q000166:cytology*; D053595:Embryonic Stem Cells; D033161:Government Regulation; D006801:Humans; D007391:International Cooperation / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D011786:Quality Control; D014015:Tissue Banks / Q000941:ethics / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*