title: The science of stem cell biobanking: investing in the future.
abstract: The use of human stem cells in biomedical research projects is increasing steadily and the number of cells that are being derived develops at a remarkable pace. However, stem cells around the world are vastly different in their provenance, programming, and potentials. Furthermore, knowledge on the actual number of cell types, their derivation, availability, and characteristics is rather sparse. Usually, "colleague-supply" avenues constantly furnish cells to laboratories around the world without ensuring their correct identity, characterization, and quality. These parameters are critical if the cells will be eventually used in toxicology studies and drug discovery. Here, we outline some basic principles in establishing a stem cell-specific bank.
authors.affiliation: Integrated Systems Engineering s.r.l., Milan, Italy.
authors.forename: Giuseppe R
authors.initials: GR
authors.lastname: Diaferia
authors.forename: Marina
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Cardano
authors.forename: Monica
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Cattaneo
authors.forename: Chiara C
authors.initials: CC
authors.lastname: Spinelli
authors.forename: Sara S
authors.initials: SS
authors.lastname: Dessì
authors.forename: Pasquale
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: DeBlasio
authors.forename: Ida
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Biunno
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D013234:Stem Cells; D014015:Tissue Banks / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000639:trends*