Hi All,
We need to source some human pluripotent cell lines that we can use for manipulation and analysis, given the withdrawal of Cellartis from 4DCellFate. The permits we have from both the UK and European powers that be regarding human ES cell use specify that we are only allowed to use lines that would have been provided by Cellartis. In order to use any other hES line, we'll have to modify this paperwork and await permission.
Therefore I suggest we get started using a human iPS line. To be honest I'm not sure how much benefit there is in using hES vs hiPS for these studies, given the general lack of clarity about exactly what a human "Pluripotent" cell is anyway.
Austin Smith has confirmed that he is willing to provide both an iPS and/or a hES line for our work. So, assuming no one has any objections, I'll get the iPS line and Horizon can get started targeting this line now. I can also apply to use Austin's hES line, but whether we actually use it or not depends upon whether anyone has strong reasons for doing things in hES cells rather that iPS cells.
I'd be happy to hear your thoughts on this.
Best wishes,
Brian
Brian D. Hendrich, PhD
Wellcome Trust Senior Research Fellow
Wellcome Trust-MRC Stem Cell Institute
Department of Biochemistry
University of Cambridge
Tennis Court Road
Cambridge
CB2 1QR
United Kingdom
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