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What do I need to provide for an iPSC generation project?
Investigators may provide PBMCs, fibroblasts, or other suitable primary cells for iPSC generation. The TGEM iPSC Core can also assist with PBMC isolation and cryopreservation from freshly collected blood. Please contact the Core before sample submission to coordinate sample requirements and project initiation.
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What do I need to provide for a genome editing project?
Investigators should provide the starting iPSC line and information describing the desired genetic modification. The TGEM iPSC Core will work with investigators to determine the appropriate editing strategy and project requirements. For certain projects, investigators may also need to provide specialized constructs or other project-specific materials.
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What types of cells can be used to generate iPSCs?
PBMCs and fibroblasts are commonly used for iPSC generation. Other primary human cell types or commercially obtained cells may also be suitable. Investigators are encouraged to contact the TGEM iPSC Core to discuss the starting material for their project.
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Do I need IRB approval to generate iPSCs?
IRB approval may be required depending on the source of the human samples and the proposed research. Investigators using human samples should follow applicable UAB IRB requirements. Please contact the Core if you have questions about sample requirements for iPSC generation.
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How do I start a project?
Contact the TGEM iPSC Core to discuss your project and the desired service. We recommend contacting the Core before collecting or submitting samples or preparing materials for genome editing. The Core will help determine project feasibility, sample requirements, appropriate services, and next steps.
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Can the Core differentiate iPSCs into specific cell types or organoids?
The TGEM iPSC Core does not currently provide routine iPSC differentiation or organoid generation as a service. However, we can help connect investigators with UAB researchers or centers with expertise in specific iPSC differentiation and organoid models.
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What quality control and characterization are performed on iPSC clones?
Standard quality control includes mycoplasma testing, low-pass whole-genome sequencing (0.3× WGS) for copy-number variation (CNV) analysis, a summary CNV report and raw sequencing data (~1 Gb/sample), pluripotency immunostaining using a basic 3–4 marker panel, and culture morphology documentation. Additional characterization, such as karyotyping, trilineage differentiation, or transcriptomic profiling, may be requested at additional cost.
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How long does it take to generate or genetically modify iPSCs?
iPSC generation typically takes approximately 12 weeks, although the timeline may vary depending on the type and proliferation rate of the starting cells. Genome editing projects generally take 12–24 weeks, depending on the type and complexity of the requested modification.
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How many iPSC clones will I receive?
The standard cost for iPSC generation and genome editing services includes three independent iPSC clones. Additional clones may be requested at additional cost.
