Custom Cell Banking Services

A typical master cell bank contains 50-100 vials, though this depends on your projected needs. The MCB should contain enough vials to:

• Create multiple working cell banks over your project timeline
• Allow for QC testing (3-5 vials)
• Provide backup stocks in case of storage system failure
• Support potential future applications

For GMP applications, regulatory guidelines recommend a minimum of 50 vials. We can help calculate the optimal bank size based on your specific requirements.

Master Cell Bank (MCB): The original, authenticated cell stock that serves as the foundation for all future work. MCB vials are used sparingly—only to create working cell banks or in emergencies. Stored long-term with maximum security.

Working Cell Bank (WCB): Derived from the MCB at a defined passage number. WCB vials are used for routine laboratory experiments and production runs. When your WCB is depleted, you thaw an MCB vial to create a new WCB.

This two-tier system ensures your original authenticated cells remain protected while providing practical stocks for daily use.

When properly cryopreserved and stored in liquid nitrogen vapor phase (-150°C to -196°C), cells can remain viable for decades. We have documentation of successful cell recovery after 30+ years of storage.

Key factors for long-term stability:

• Proper cryoprotectant concentration (typically 10% DMSO)
• Controlled-rate freezing (1°C/minute optimal for most cells)
• Storage in liquid nitrogen vapor phase (not liquid phase to prevent contamination)
• Consistent temperature maintenance (avoid freeze-thaw cycles)
• Quality cryovials that prevent leakage and contamination

We offer both options to fit your needs:

Option 1: We Store Your Cells
Our secure, monitored liquid nitrogen storage facility provides 24/7 temperature monitoring, backup power systems, and full traceability. Ideal if you lack appropriate storage infrastructure or want off-site backup protection.

Option 2: Ship to Your Facility
We ship your completed cell bank on dry ice with temperature monitoring. You receive the cells ready for transfer to your own liquid nitrogen storage. This option provides immediate access for your laboratory.

Option 3: Split Storage
Many clients choose to split their cell bank—storing half with us as secure backup and keeping half on-site for immediate access. This provides the best of both worlds.

Contact us to discuss storage options →

Standard Research-Grade Testing Includes:

• Post-thaw viability assessment (Trypan blue exclusion)
• Mycoplasma testing (PCR-based detection)
• Sterility testing (bacterial and fungal culture, 14 days)
• Cell identity verification (STR profiling)
• Growth characterization (doubling time, morphology)

GMP-Grade Additional Testing:

• Extended sterility testing (28 days)
• Adventitious agent testing (virus screening panel)
• Endotoxin testing (LAL assay)
• Isoenzyme analysis (additional identity confirmation)
• Tumorigenicity testing (if applicable)
• Extended characterization per ICH Q5A, Q5D guidelines

We can customize testing panels based on your specific regulatory requirements. Request detailed testing information →

Yes, we can bank both! However, the approach differs:

Established Cell Lines: Standard MCB/WCB creation using proven protocols. These cells proliferate indefinitely and are straightforward to bank.

Primary Cells: Require specialized handling due to limited passage potential. We work with:

• Primary hepatocytes
• Primary neurons and glia
• Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)
• Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)
• Patient-derived cells for personalized medicine

For primary cells, we optimize cryopreservation protocols to maximize post-thaw viability and function. We can also help establish immortalized lines from your primary cells if appropriate.

Discuss your primary cell banking needs →

Comprehensive documentation is provided with every cell banking project:

Standard Documentation Package:

• Certificate of Analysis (CoA) with all QC test results
• Cell banking record (expansion history, passage numbers)
• Cryopreservation protocol used
• Thaw and recovery protocol for your laboratory
• Culture medium specifications
• STR profile report
• Mycoplasma and sterility test reports
• Vial inventory list with storage locations

GMP Documentation Additions:

• Complete batch record with full traceability
• Raw material certificates (media, FBS, reagents)
• Equipment qualification and calibration records
• Personnel training records
• Deviation reports (if any)
• Regulatory support documentation for submissions

Pricing varies based on scope and complexity. Factors affecting cost include:

• Number of vials: 50 vials vs. 200 vials
• Quality grade: Research vs. GMP
• Testing requirements: Standard panel vs. extended characterization
• Cell type complexity: Standard cell lines vs. primary cells or stem cells
• Timeline: Standard vs. expedited service
• Storage: Ship to you vs. long-term storage with us

Typical Price Ranges (Research Grade):

• MCB Creation (50 vials): Contact for quote
• WCB Development (100 vials): Contact for quote
• Combined MCB + WCB package: Contact for quote (includes discount)

We provide detailed, transparent quotes with no hidden fees. Request a custom quote →