Services

• Isolation and banking of primary cells; mycoplasma testing.
• Generation of hiPSCs using either integrating or non-integrating reprogramming vectors.
• Expansion of ≥3 hiPSC clones on Vitronectin XF or matrigel in mTeSR-plus medium (STEMCELL Technologies); cryopreservation at two passages around P5.
• Characterization of hiPSC clones: FACS analysis of pluripotency markers (SSEA4, OCT3/4, Nanog) in undifferentiated hiPSCs; IF staining of mesodermal, ectodermal and endodermal markers after short-term in vitro
• Cell line authentication using Short Tandem Repeat (STR) analysis (LUMC department of Human Genetics): primary cells and hiPSCs.
• Karyotyping via G-banding (LUMC dept. of Clinical Genetics) or ddPCR (StemGenomics)
• Generation of isogenic hiPSCs using CRISPR/Cas9 technology.
• Provision of extensively characterized, validated ‘control’ hiPSCs (from individuals without known genetic disease; various options concerning gender, age, reprogramming vector).
• Supply of differentiation protocols developed in house (e.g. cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells)
• Advice and support regarding hiPSC project planning, grant writing, assay development, collaborations etc.
• Training courses.

The Leiden hiPSC Centre organises an annual hands-on training course on hiPSC maintenance and differentiation. We do this in collaboration with STEMCELL Technologies.

During the 3-day course, participants learn how to maintain undifferentiated hiPSCs. They also learn about the basic principles of hiPSC differentiation and reprogramming. The course consists of lectures and practical work and is open to LUMC and external researchers. Course dates are announced on the websites of the LUMC hiPSC Hotel and STEMCELL Technologies. Service costs apply.