The University of Massachusetts Medical School is putting online one of the most comprehensive stem cell databases for public access.
From the press release:
The ISCR provides an online resource of information on human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) to the academic and private sector biomedical research community and to the public. Envisioned as a “one stop shop” for hESC information, the site details the properties and potential applications of specific hESC lines and includes information about obtaining the cells and a catalog of references related to each hESC line. While researchers can use the information to inform their scientific studies, patients can use the website to gain information about stem cell advances that may benefit them, and doctors can stay current on information relevant to their patients. The website will provide information at varying levels of complexity, ensuring that each constituency can access the information in a practical format.
Though the ground-breaking database is still evolving, it will ultimately provide a searchable and comprehensive catalog of published and validated unpublished information on every human embryonic stem cell line derived to date.
“The launch of the Stem Cell Registry represents a milestone for the Commonwealth and will help to further solidify the state’s position as the global leader in life sciences. A Registry here in Massachusetts will further accelerate the important biomedical research already being done in the State and will enhance the potential impact of projects that the Center funds in the future,” said Dr. Susan Windham-Bannister, President and CEO of the Center.
International Stem Cell Registry at UMass
Press release: UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS MEDICAL SCHOOL AND MASSACHUSETTS LIFE SCIENCES CENTER ANNOUNCE LAUNCH OF INTERNATIONAL STEM CELL REGISTRY
Image: Synchronized S-phase H9 human ES cells stained for Cyclin E (red) and Ki67 (red). DAPI (blue) stains DNA. Photo courtesy: Dr. Prachi Ghule, Dr. Gary Stein, Dept of Cell Biology, UMASS Medical School