The National Stem Cell Bank (NSCB) is a repository for the pluripotent stem cell lines listed on the NIH Human Pluripotent Stem Cell Registry. These cells were derived prior to August 2001 using excess IVF embryos and were eligible for use in federally funded research under prior presidential policy. The eligibility of these lines will not be known until the NIH issues final stem cell guidelines in July 2009. The goal of the National Stem Cell Bank is to grow, characterize and distribute the cell lines listed on the registry, and to provide comprehensive technical support to stem cell researchers around the world.

The NSCB is led by Drs. Derek Hei and James Thomson, who work in conjunction with the scientific advisory board to determine the NSCB's priorities. Read more...