MISSION

The Norwegian Center for Stem Cell Research focuses on iPS cell-based in vitro models of neurological, endocrine and ocular diseases. The Center comprises 10 research groups with strong expertise in the differentiation of hiPS cells to neural, ocular and endocrine cell types, and technical platforms to utilize these cells to model human disease in vitro. Methodologies include directed cell differentiation, 2D and 3D culture systems, organoid generation, microfluidics, diverse gene expression assays, CRISPR-based gene editing, electrophysiology, high throughput functional imaging.

NATIONAL CORE FACILITY

In addition, the Center runs the National Core Facility for Human Pluripotent Stem Cells, which has been culturing human embryonic stem cells (hES cells) since 2009 and reprogramming human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPS cells) since 2012. The Core Facility offers a range of fee-based services including reprogramming, characterizing and banking research-grade iPS cells, instruction in iPS cell-related techniques, and use of cell culture facilities and instruments.

GENOME EDITING SERVICES, EpiGen, Akershus University Hospital (Ahus)

In collaboration with UiO and Ahus, the center now offers highly efficient and comprehensive genome editing services in human iPSCs. These include knock-in, knock-out, SNP correction, and reporter iPSC generation, all utilizing advanced CRISPR technology. With our expertise in CRISPR/Cas genome engineering, we’re committed to offering flexible, affordable, and customized solutions to support research involving pluripotent stem cells.

NATIONAL iPS CELL BANK FOR CLINICAL APPLICATIONS

The Center is also spearheading the development of a national “super-donor” iPS cell bank for clinical applications, in collaboration with the Norwegian Bone Marrow Donor Registry and the Oslo University Hospital Ex Vivo Laboratory for GMP clinical cell production. This project aims to establish a national bank of clinical grade haplotyped hiPS cell lines that can be used to derive differentiated cells for cell replacement therapies in patients.

HISTORY

The Norwegian Center for Stem Cell Research was established in 2009 at the Oslo University Hospital-National Hospital (Rikshospitalet) through a directive from the Norwegian Ministry of Health, with funding administered by the Norwegian Research Council.

The center's original objectives were to increase the pace of existing stem cell research in Norway, establish a platform for human pluripotent stem cell research, and build translational bridges that facilitate the clinical use of stem cells to treat patients. 

In addition to being a driving force for Norwegian stem cell research, the Center has played a national role in training researchers, disseminating knowledge about human pluripotent stem cells to researchers, clinicians, and the general public, and increasing collaboration between Norwegian and international stem cell research communities.

Contact information for general requests:
Phone: +47 22851578
E-mail: h.b.fjerdingstad@medisin.uio.no

Media inquiries:
Inquiries from the media should be made to Hege Brincker Fjerdingstad by email or telephone.

Patient inquiries:
All patient inquiries should be made by email to Hege Brincker Fjerdingstad. The center can not administer patient inquiries made through any other channels.