International Groups

International Stem Cell Banking Initiative (ISCBI)

This activity is a not-for-profit organisation coordinated by Prof Glyn Stacey and brings hPSC resource centres from around the world together to seek consensus on best practice in a very wide range of issues in delivery of stem cells for both research and commercial application (for further information see www.iscbi.org). It has produced numerous publications on the banking and supply of hESC and hiPSC lines and organises regular meetings around the world. It also contributes to training programmes and educational symposia.

Human Pluripotent Stem Cell Registry (hPSCreg)

This is a European Commission funded project led by Prof Andreas Kurtz (Charite Iniversitat Medizin) that is required to register and certify that all human pluripotent stem cell lines used in EU-funded research meet appropriate ethical and scientific standards (for further information see). Detailed information on the characteristics of each cell line and evidence of ethical procurement of donor cells is published in an open public database. The project has a large number of expert National Representatives who provide scrutiny and advice on cell lines from their own country. The most recent development is the creation of two new databases, one collating detailed information on clinical trials using hPSCs and the other listing important features cell lines which are intended as candidates for manufacture of cell therapies.

International Stem Cell Initiative (ISCI)

This activity is now led by Prof Martin Pera (Jackson Laboratories, USA) following a highly successful period of leadership by Prof Peter Andrews (University of Sheffield, UK). It carries out international collaborative research and formulates expert opinion on key issues in the scientific quality of pluripotent stem cells. Subjects of study have included common biological features of hESCs, It has published numerous publications on pluripotent stem cells and is currently focused on understanding the nature of genetic stability in human pluripotent stem cell lines.

The International Society for Cell & Gene Therapy (ISCT)

The ISCT is a global professional organization dedicated to advancing cell and gene therapy through scientific research, clinical translation, and regulatory collaboration. Founded in 1992, it brings together researchers, clinicians, and industry leaders to promote safe and effective therapies worldwide. It focuses on stem cell research, immunotherapies (like CAR-T), regulatory standards, and commercialization. Through conferences, working groups, and publications, ISCT drives innovation and education in this transformative medical field.