Our Complete Biobanking Process

ASCB follows a rigorous, multi-stage workflow to ensure that every stem cell line deposited in our biobank meets the highest standards of quality, authenticity, and safety before being made available to the research community.

1
Sample Collection

Ethical collection of biological samples from donor animals following CPCSEA and IAEC-approved protocols with full documentation.

2
Processing & Isolation

Primary cell isolation, culture establishment, and expansion under sterile, standardized laboratory conditions using defined media and substrates.

3
Quality Testing

Comprehensive characterization including mycoplasma testing, karyotyping, STR profiling, sterility assays, and pluripotency marker validation.

4
Cryopreservation

Validated cryopreservation using optimized protocols to ensure long-term viability - with backup storage in multiple secure liquid nitrogen tanks.

5
Data Cataloguing

Detailed metadata capture including species, tissue source, passage number, culture conditions, and characterization reports in our digital database.

6
MTA Processing

Researchers submit formal requests; ASCB reviews eligibility, processes Material Transfer Agreements (MTAs), and obtains necessary regulatory approvals.

7
Distribution

Secure packaging and shipment of viable cell lines on dry ice with complete characterization certificates and culture protocols to approved institutes.

8
Post-Distribution Support

Technical assistance for revival, culture optimization, and troubleshooting. Feedback collection to improve repository quality and expand the collection.

Internal Validation

Quality Control Loop

A continuous cycle of rigorous testing to ensure every cell line exceeds international standards before repository acceptance.

ASCB Standard
CORE QC
Morphology
Visual Verification
Viability
Metabolic Integrity
Genetic Stability
Chromosomal Purity
Surface Markers
CD Profiling
Documentation
Full Traceability

Comprehensive Quality Assurance

Ensuring the authenticity, safety, and functional potency of every cell line.

Cell Characterization

  • Flow cytometry: Comprehensive analysis of surface marker expression patterns.
  • Tri-lineage differentiation: Functional assays for osteogenic, adipogenic, and chondrogenic potential.
  • Immunofluorescence imaging: Visualization of key cellular markers and morphology.
  • Colony forming unit assays: Assessment of self-renewal and proliferative capacity.

Safety & Purity

  • Sterility testing: Rigorous screening for bacteria, fungi, and mycoplasma contamination.
  • Karyotyping: Analysis of chromosomal integrity for genetic stability validation.
  • Viability assessment: Mandatory >90% threshold for repository acceptance.
  • Documentation: Complete traceability and standardized data logging for every action.

Typical Processing Timeline

From sample collection to repository-ready stem cell line.

Day 0-1

Collection & Isolation

Aseptic tissue harvest and primary extraction.

Week 1-4

Primary Expansion

Establishing stable cell populations under optimal media conditions.

Week 4-8

Characterization & QC

Rigorous testing for markers, safety, and pluripotency.

Week 8-10

Banking & Storage

Cryopreservation in LN2 and database integration.