MStem Cell Laboratories

Housed within the University of Michigan’s Life Sciences Institute, the Center for Stem Cell Biology has been a cornerstone of U-M’s stem cell enterprise since its early establishment with NIH and institutional funding around 2002, evolving into a leader in human embryonic stem cell (hESC) and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) research. As one of just six U.S. core facilities for maintaining federally approved hESC lines, it supports groundbreaking work across campuses, emphasizing ethical, high-impact science in pluripotency, cancer stem cells, and regenerative applications.

The center’s mission focuses on elucidating stem cell self-renewal, differentiation, and malignancy mechanisms to unlock treatments for cancer, degenerative diseases, and beyond—bridging basic biology with translational potential through shared resources and interdisciplinary collaboration. It forms a key pillar alongside U-M’s Comprehensive Cancer Center and broader regenerative medicine initiatives, including the Consortium for Stem Cell Therapies (now under the Taubman Institute).

Research Focus & Achievements:

Specializing in core transcription factors for pluripotency and malignant transformation, the center pioneered iPSC technology and cancer stem cell studies, with labs exploring asymmetric division, X-inactivation in embryonic stem cells, and implications for therapies. Facilities like the Pluripotent Stem Cell Core Lab (reconfigured in the Biomedical Science Research Building) and Human Stem Cell and Gene Editing Core (founded 2015) offer iPSC reprogramming, genome editing, brain organoids, and differentiation services to U-M and external researchers.

Milestones include deriving Michigan’s first hESC line (2010, post-legal reforms), advancing disease-affected stem cell models, and contributing to global insights like stress responses in stem cells. As of 2025, integrated efforts span organoids, single-cell analysis, and regenerative programs in diabetes, neuropathy, and tissue engineering, supported by EBS awards and NIH grants. Under leaders like Sean Morrison (former director, vocal on unregulated clinics), it warns against risky foreign treatments while pushing ethical progress.

Fueled by state, federal, and philanthropic sources, the center trains future scientists via PIBS and departmental programs in Cell & Developmental Biology.