WiCell launches cGMP STR Profiling Services for Cell Line Authentication

PRESS RELEASE

Example of an STR electropherogram
Example of an STR electropherogram
May 07, 2024

Madison, WI—WiCell, an organization dedicated to supporting research and the advancement of novel therapies through innovative technologies and services, proudly announces the launch of their new cGMP Short Tandem Repeat (STR) Profiling Service. STR genotyping, the industry gold standard methodology to verify the authenticity of human cell lines, is integral to ensuring the reliability and reproducibility of experimental outcomes in stem cell research, regenerative medicine, and cell and gene therapy. 

The misidentification of human cell lines is a widely recognized problem that has impacted progress in biomedical research. One study estimates between 18-36% of cell lines utilized in biomedical research are contaminated and/or are completely misidentified, resulting in lost time, wasted effort, and added cost. WiCell’s new cGMP STR Profiling Service addresses the important need to verify human cell lines in translational research, complementing its existing suite of cGMP testing services, which includes cGMP karyotype and cGMP FISH. Researchers now have access to a complete cGMP cell line characterization toolkit to validate the authenticity, genomic integrity, and suitability of cell lines for translational research, development, and clinical applications.

Cell line authentication forms the foundation for good science and is vital for driving scientific progress with accuracy and integrity," said Tenneille Ludwig, Director of the WiCell Stem Cell Bank. " WiCell’s new cGMP STR Profiling Service provides researchers with the quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and peace of mind to advance their biopharmaceutical development and translational research with confidence.

WiCell’s cGMP STR Profiling Service is executed by a team of highly-trained professionals in compliance with cGMP best practices and adherence to guidelines designed to support submissions to regulatory agencies.  

For more information about WiCell's cGMP STR Profiling Services and other offerings, visit wicell.org.


About WiCell
Headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin, WiCell is a supporting organization of the University of Wisconsin–Madison, a world leader in the area of human pluripotent stem cell research. Established in 1999 to advance stem cell technologies, our mission extends beyond providing high-quality stem cell lines and characterization services. We are dedicated to advancing regenerative medicine and cell and gene therapy globally. Through promoting best practices in cell banking and characterization, we aim to support groundbreaking research and clinical applications. Our efforts—rooted in a commitment to quality, innovation, and collaboration—underscore our desire to support the scientific community as your lab partner. For more information visit wicell.org.