A Plymouth, UK-based laboratory is fast emerging as the world’s leading stem cell processing and storage centre as a landmark collected sample arrives.

Stem cell collection specialist Smart Cells International has chosen BioVault in Plymouth International Business Park to store its 5000th stem cell sample. Smart Cells has now collected stem cells in 40 countries, with the vast majority being stored in Plymouth. BioVault undertakes all Smart Cells’s cord blood preparation and storage in an environment designed to comply with all current and foreseeable European medical guidelines and practices.

The laboratory is MHRA registered and operates under an ISO9001:2000 management system.

All processing is undertaken in a ‘controlled processing laboratory’, which provides an extremely clean environment, by specifically trained staff.

A sophisticated haematology analyser is used to accurately determine the number and quality of the cells in every blood sample.

Smart Cells, which was formed in February 2001, collects stem cells on behalf of families all over the world before arranging storage, primarily in Plymouth.

Once delivered to BioVault the blood is prepared for final freezing in a cryogenic pouch using a sterile, closed bag system.

The process effectively separates the blood into its component parts and then computer-controlled equipment ensures that the stem cells are captured.

The cells are then carefully prepared and frozen in a hermetically sealed storage pouch.

The pouch, in its protective aluminium cassette, is then stored for up to 25 years in a medical registered device at a temperature below -180C at which temperature the cell ageing process is effectively suspended.
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