Established in 2014 with support from the Innovative Health Initiative and EFPIA, EBiSC began distributing its first iPSC lines in 2016. Since then, it has enabled researchers worldwide to access and share valuable iPSC resources. The first phase of the project (2014–2017) focused on building the foundational infrastructure for a centralised iPSC biobank, including processes and protocols for an ethical and legal infrastructure, cell banking and quality control and data management, whilst the second phase (2019–2023) prioritised sustainability, refining and strengthening operations to ensure long-term efficiency, scalability, and robustness.
These achievements were made possible through collaborations with scientists internationally who contributed their iPSC lines in support of EBiSC’s open science mission. Their commitment has been fundamental in shaping a diverse and accessible collection. Thanks to these partnerships, EBiSC has:
- Collaborated with more than 25 research groups across the UK, EU, and USA
- Safeguarded over 1,000 iPSC lines derived from samples collected in more than 30 clinical studies
- Shared lines representing more than 45 diseases
- Included familial cohorts from rare conditions such as Angelman syndrome and FSHD
- Distributed genetically modified iPSC lines, including gene knockouts, missense knock-ins, reporter lines, and inducible expression systems
- Developed pre-differentiated and cryopreserved neuronal cell products
- Advanced best practices and innovations in upscaling, automation, and cryopreservation
This rich and diverse catalogue has established EBiSC as a trusted international resource, supporting research across disease modelling, organoids, genomics, drug discovery, and regenerative medicine by providing access to well-characterised, quality-controlled iPSCs.
We extend our sincere thanks to all project partners, collaborators, depositors, and users whose contributions and engagement have been central to EBiSC’s success. We also acknowledge and thank Culture Collections for their earlier role as the EBiSC distribution hub. Special recognition goes to our teams at Fraunhofer UK Research Ltd and the Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering, whose expertise and dedication ensure excellence in cell banking, data management, and distribution.
Looking ahead, EBiSC remains committed to expanding access, maintaining the highest quality standards, and driving innovation in stem cell research. We will continue to grow our collection, adopt new technologies, and share emerging approaches with the community.
To deposit iPSC lines, access the collection, or explore collaboration opportunities in iPSC generation, banking, quality control, or differentiation, please contact us at Contact@EBiSC.org.
