Singapore biotech company , ES Cell International Pte Limited (ESI), has produced four new clinically-compliant human embryonic stem cell (hESC), with another four lines in the pipeline. Previously existing embryonic lines have been in contact with mouse cells, and are therefore unsuitable for clinical use in humans. In contrast, ESI says their lines were made according to current Good Manufacturing Practice conditions. According to Alan Colman, CEO of ES Cell International,research-grade cells will be available to academic researchers for a "modest administrative fee", while clinical grade cells will be available for a higher price and a royalty agreement.

Read the story from the Nature News and more from ESI's press release (pdf).