Open AccessDerivation of a Xeno‐Free Human Embryonic Stem Cell Line
Author(s) -
Ellerström Catharina,
Strehl Raimund,
Moya Karina,
Andersson Katarina,
Bergh Christina,
Lundin Kersti,
Hyllner Johan,
Semb Henrik
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
stem cells
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.159
H-Index - 229
eISSN - 1549-4918
pISSN - 1066-5099
DOI - 10.1634/stemcells.2006-0130
Subject(s) - biology , embryonic stem cell , stem cell , microbiology and biotechnology , genetics , gene
Elimination of all animal material during both the derivation and long‐term culture of human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) is necessary prior to future application of hESCs in clinical cell therapy. The potential consequences of transplanting xeno‐contaminated hESCs into patients, such as an increased risk of graft rejection [S tem C ells 2006;24:221–229] and the potential transfer of nonhuman pathogens, make existing hESC lines unsuitable for clinical applications. To avoid xeno‐contamination during derivation and culture of hESCs, we first developed a xeno‐free medium supplemented with human serum, which supports long‐term (>50 passages) culture of hESCs in an undifferentiated state. To enable derivation of new xeno‐free hESCs, we also established xeno‐free human foreskin fibroblast feeders and replaced immunosurgery, which involves the use of guinea pig complement, with a modified animal‐product‐free derivation procedure. Here, we report the establishment and characterization (>20 passages) of a xeno‐free pluripotent diploid normal hESC line, SA611.