National collection of human cell lines and DNA for genetic research

The NIGMS Human Genetic Cell Repository

NIH-funded research Coriell Institute for Medical Research · NIH-11111569

This project maintains and grows a national collection of human cell lines and DNA to help researchers studying inherited conditions and human genetic variation.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCoriell Institute for Medical Research NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Camden, United States)
Project IDNIH-11111569 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

From a patient's point of view, this project acts like a carefully run bank that stores cells and DNA from people with inherited disorders, chromosomal changes, and healthy volunteers. The team collects samples, verifies and characterizes them, and stores them under strict quality controls to prevent contamination. They prepare and distribute DNA and cell materials on request and provide special genetic services to qualified researchers. By keeping well-documented, high-quality biological materials, they make it easier for scientists and clinicians to study genetic causes of disease and improve diagnostics.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates include people with inherited genetic disorders or chromosomal abnormalities, individuals from diverse ancestry groups, and healthy volunteers willing to donate cells or DNA.

Not a fit: People who are unwilling or unable to donate biological samples or whose health concerns are unrelated to genetics may not directly benefit from participating.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, the repository could speed genetic diagnoses and support research that leads to better tests and treatments by providing reliable human samples and data.

How similar studies have performed: Longstanding biobanks and cell repositories have a proven record of enabling genetic discoveries and improved diagnostics, so this is a well-established approach.

Where this research is happening

Camden, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.