Stem cells: international recognition for a Nantes research platform

  • On 11 March 2026
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The iPSC platform, based in Nantes and affiliated with the BioCore unit (Nantes Université – Inserm – Nantes University Hospital – CNRS), has been contributing to advances in stem cell research for several years. It plays a leading role in coordinating two research networks: a European network (CorEuStem) and an international one (Stem Cell COREdinates). The International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) has recently honoured both networks with its 2026 Public Service Award. This award recognises the effort made to strengthen collaboration in stem cell research, raise standards in the field, and promote fair and responsible access to stem cell science.

iPSC cells have the unique ability to develop into any cell type found in the adult human body. This makes them a particularly valuable tool for regenerative medicine, the development of new treatments, pharmaceutical research, and the study of genetic disease mechanisms.

Founded in 2012, the iPSC platform specialises in the culture of human pluripotent stem cells. Its work focuses in particular on reprogramming adult cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), as well as genome editing of these cells and of control iPSC lines. Since its creation, the platform has produced more than 250 iPSC lines for 80 research teams.

Since genome editing services opened in 2024, 15 iPSC lines have been successfully edited. In partnership with the Nantes University Hospital (CHU de Nantes), the iPSC platform has also developed, characterised, and made available to the scientific community a human embryonic stem cell (hESC) line.

About the International Society for Stem Cell Research

The International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) is the world's leading interdisciplinary scientific organisation dedicated to stem cell research and its clinical applications. With nearly 5,000 members from more than 80 countries, the ISSCR's mission is to promote excellence in stem cell science and its applications to human health.

Updated on 18 March 2026.