Abstract: The present invention concerns methods for deriving and culturing embryonic cells and in particular to methods for maintaining the undifferentiated state of stems cells and cell lines in culture. The invention also concerns cells and cell lines derived by the methods of the invention.

Abstract: The present invention provides a cell passaging medium comprising at least one agent capable of detaching from a surface a cell that is culture in vitro on said surface, and a water-soluble polymer capable of protecting the detached cell. The present invention also provides a cell culturing medium comprising one or more cell culture protectants capable of protecting cells in culture. The present invention further relates to the use of said media in methods for culturing cells in vitro or for deriving monolayer cell cultures of mammalian stem cells.

Abstract: The method involves placing an oocyte cell in a cell holder (1), securing the cell holder in a treatment station, applying a treatment solution to the cell by washing the cell with the solution, and rapidly cooling the cell holder and cell to a predetermined cryopreservation temperature for cryopreservation of the cell. The cell is cooled at a high rate sufficient to permit vitrification of the cell and any surrounding treatment solution to occur. The cell is then maintained at or below a predetermined storage temperature for storage. The method allows multiple cells to be treated simultaneously each secured within a respective cell holder.

Abstract: A work station comprises a surface (11) for supporting a sample (12); a temperature controller for controlling the temperature of the surface; and apparatus (16) for communicating with a memory tag via a wireless electromagnetic link. The apparatus is located beneath the surface in order to communicate with a memory tag on or over the surface. A soft magnetic member is provided. The temperature controller comprises a chamber containing a liquid; a pump for pumping the liquid into the chamber; an inlet channel between the pump and the chamber; and an inlet weir extending across the inlet channel so as to impede the flow of liquid through the inlet channel into the main chamber. The work station is of particular use in the monitoring of samples being used in in-vitro fertilisation procedures.

Abstract: The present invention concerns methods for deriving and culturing embryonic cells and in particular to methods for maintaining the undifferentiated state of stems cells and cell lines in culture. The invention also concerns cells and cell lines derived by the methods of the invention.