Biomedicum Stem Cell Center (BSCC)

Our methods for hiPSC generation use non-integrative technologies, such as the Sendai virus and CRISPR-Cas9-based gene activation (CRISPRa), to reprogram somatic cells. Standard cell types include peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and skin fibroblasts. Special arrangements can be made for reprogramming other cell types. We offer two types of custom hiPSC derivation services:

1. Early hiPSC Generation. This service includes 4–6 uncharacterized iPSC clones frozen at an early passage. This is ideal for generating iPSCs from multiple donors (>10 donors).
2. hiPSC Generation. We generate 2 characterized iPSC clones frozen at passage 10 and 2–4 uncharacterized clones frozen at an early passage. Characterization includes morphology assessment, maintenance for at least 10 passages, PCR-based transgene detection and mycoplasma-free confirmation. Clones that survive as typical iPSC colonies for extended periods are considered bona fide stem cells.

We guarantee the derivation of two hiPSC lines from the client’s cells. If reprogramming fails, there will be no charge. To start the service, follow these steps:

• Before initiating the derivation of hiPSC, ethical approval from the local ethics committee is required. For users from the Academic Medical Center Helsinki, see instructions (in Finnish).
• Contact Ras Trokovic to initiate the process.
• Complete the order form and service agreement for the University of Helsinki or external users.
• Ensure cells are mycoplasma-free before shipping. We do not culture mycoplasma-positive cells.
• We will consult you regarding the most appropriate technology for reprogramming your cells.
• Payment is due upon receipt of the cells.

For the comprehensive characterization requirements, please refer to the Standards for Human Stem Cell Use in Research 

We offer the generation of knockout (KO) and knock-in (KI) cell lines, including mutation correction, mutation introduction, and reporter line generation, using the latest genome editing technologies.

BSCC offers three-tier services for KO and KI in hPSC:

1. Genome editing design (Computational design of CRISPR guides, donor templates, and validation strategies).
2. Confirmation of genome editing in the bulk population (Screening for successful genome edits in a mixed population of edited and unedited cells).
3. Clonal selection and validation

• For KO, we validate and expand 3 characterized hPSC clones.
• For KI, we validate and expand 2 characterized hPSC clones.
• Characterization includes assessing iPSC morphology and performing Sanger sequencing to demonstrate desired editing.

We cannot guarantee the successful generation of genome-edited hPSC lines due to various technical and biological limitations.

To initiate the genome editing service, please contact Ras Trokovic and review the genome editing service guidelines, which outline the process and the required information.

We proved the targeted differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells into specific endodermal lineages and beta cells, available on demand. To initiate the service: 

Reach out to Diego Balboa. 

We offer differentiating iPSCs into various brain cell types, supporting research in neuroscience and neurodegenerative diseases. To see the full list of services please visit us at: Neural iPSC (NiPS) 

BSCC provides the basic training required for using the IncuCyte S3 system. However, users are responsible for learning how to use the different analysis modules. Guidance on these modules is available free of charge from Sartorius. The IncuCyte S3 continuously acquires and analyzes images, supporting up to six microplates simultaneously. Users can schedule experiments with varying image acquisition frequencies and magnifications. The system also allows remote access with unlimited free licenses. Available IncuCyte S3 modules include Standard, Scratch Wound, Whole Well, Dilution Cloning, and Chemotaxis, along with Basic Analyzer and Neurotrack modules for analysis. 

Users cover the maintenance costs of the IncuCyte system. If there is excess income, BSCC will use it to acquire additional image analysis modules and will consult users beforehand. 

To start using the IncuCyte S3, follow these steps:

• First-time users: Contact Alba Pardo
• Registered users: Create/edit reservations via the reservation calendar.
• Payment: We issue invoices biannually based on the reservation calendar. 

BSCC offers hands-on, customized laboratory training in pluripotent stem cell culture and analysis. Basic aseptic lab work knowledge is required. For training inquiries:

• Contact Agnes Viherä 

We provide locally derived human embryonic stem cells (hESC) and human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) upon request. Additionally, OCT4 and SOX2 reporter hiPSC lines are available. Follow the procedure below to request cell lines:

• Choose the desired cell line from the table
• Submit a request to Ras Trokovic

Please note: These cell lines are available for basic research conducted at the University of Helsinki. Legal restrictions may apply to their use outside the University of Helsinki or for commercial purposes.

Before initiating experiments, check the genome integrity of the PSC lines (karyotype/microarray analysis). We recommend performing karyotyping every 10–15 passages to ensure there are no chromosomal duplications, insertions, deletions, translocations, or centromere losses during long-term culture.

The Ordering Scientist agrees to acknowledge BSCC core facility contribution to any resulting publications using the following statement:

"The [Service provided] was performed at the Biomedicum Stem Cell Center (BSCC), supported by HiLIFE and the Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, and Biocenter Finland."

As a core facility, the BSCC relies on user feedback to continuously improve our services and maintain the highest standards of research support. Please feel free to send your feedback to Ras Trokovic.

Additionally, acknowledging BSCC in publications is essential for demonstrating the impact of our core facility and securing continued funding. 

The BSCC Core Facility operates on a first-come, first-served basis to ensure fair and efficient access to our resources. Users are encouraged to book in advance and adhere to their reservation times. Late cancellations or no-shows may impact future access. Exceptions for urgent institutional research needs are subject to facility management approval.

Diego Balboa

Director

diego.balboa@helsinki.fi 

Ras Trokovic

Manager  

ras.trokovic@helsinki.fi 

Alba Pardo Domínguez

Technician

alba.pardodominguez@helsinki.fi

Agnes Viherä

Technician 

agnes.vihera@helsinki.fi 

Taisia Rolova

NiPS Coordinator 

taisia.rolova@helsinki.fi

Biomedicum Helsinki 1 
Haartmaninkatu 8, 00290 Helsinki

BSCC services are located on the 5th floor

NiPS services are located on the 2nd floor