A cell bank in its simplest form is a collection of containers of cryopreserved cells that are intgral part of a homogenous cell suspension derived from a single culture of cells.Cells are stored at ultra-low temperature and in this state the cells remain viable indefinitely. On thawing they are able to divide again.
A cryopreserved bank of cells is a kind of freezed culture. The cells can be characterised, qualified
and shared.
Otherwise , the cells stored are highly susceptible to the adverse effects of laboratory accidents and microbial
contamination. They are also prone to genetic change which may not be recognized on microscopic examination but can have critical effects on their properties and characteristics. Thus cell banks also provide vital safe depositories of
precious material that would otherwise be lost over time.
Using stem cells banks as distribution centers also promotes standardisation of experimental research. A stem cell bank subjects all the stem cells to the same system of quality control and safety testing. This would provide a central resource with expertise in appropriate quality standards.
This would also influence more efficient international transfer of cells, by providing a central point for information on regulation.
About Arun Pal Singh