Gladstone-CIRM Shared Resources Laboratory
Gladstone-CIRM Shared Resources Laboratory is a centralized facility at Gladstone Institutes offering a streamlined platform for stem cell-based disease modeling, drug screening, and CRISPR screening for therapeutic development. Combined, these technologies give researchers the ability to not only see how disease forms and progresses in highly realistic models, but also pinpoint the exact genes at the root of disease.
The center, established in 2024 with a grant from the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM), builds on existing capabilities of Gladstone’s Stem Cell Core and Bioinformatics Core.
To support researchers in their development of disease-modeling platforms from stem cell-derived neurons, cardiomyocytes, and immune cells, the center offers lab automation equipment and advanced analysis methods that increase production while improving reproducibility. We also deploy open-source software for genetic and image analysis to complement commercial analysis packages.
The center’s CRISPR screening platforms, which aid in discovering and evaluating novel therapeutics, include powerful high-throughput screens of stem cell models. Along with this, researchers have access to state-of-the-art drug and CRISPR libraries, equipment, and expertise to discover new therapeutic targets and potential treatments.
Education and the dissemination of key research methods are also top priorities of the center. We provide training opportunities to students and researchers with hands-on stem cell and bioinformatics courses, workshops, and tutorials.
Scientific Areas of Focus
- Stem Cell Biology
- Modeling Human Disease
- Assay Development and Drug Discovery
- Bioinformatics
Courses
This is an introductory course designed to provide a foundational understanding of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and CRISPR gene-editing technology. Through a series of expert-led presentations, participants gain insights into the scientific principles, methods, and applications of these powerful tools in biomedical research. The course is ideal for early-career scientists, students, and professionals looking to build their knowledge of cutting-edge techniques in regenerative medicine and genetic engineering.
Master cutting-edge stem cell techniques through intensive, practical training designed for researchers ready to advance their experimental skills. Our comprehensive iPS cell course series offers both short-format and extended immersive training covering four essential modules: basic iPSC culture, iPS cell reprogramming, iPS cell gene editing, and iPS cell differentiation.
Gladstone’s Bioinformatics Core offers comprehensive data science training designed to empower researchers at every level. Our program combines rigorous scientific instruction with personalized mentoring in a collaborative research environment. Whether you’re just starting your data science journey or looking to advance your skills, our expert-led training covers essential bioinformatics, biostatistics, and data science techniques.
Services Provided
Equipment
To be trained on the equipment, email stemcell-core@gladstone.ucsf.edu. To book equipment, make an account on iLab. View more equipment available in our Stem Cell Core.
Cytiva NanoAssemblr Ignite Nanoparticle Formulator
Applications
- Lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulation for delivering nucleic acid cargo (mRNA, siRNA, sgRNA, pDNA, etc.)
Specifications
- Microfluidic mixing instrument for formulating homogeneous nanoparticles of volume 1–20 mL
- Includes disposable syringes to load input solutions
- Includes cartridges with 2 input mixing channels
- Variable flow rates (0.1 to 20 mL/min) and input volumes (<30 mL)
- Mixing time <2 min per nanoparticle formulation
Bettersize Instruments BeNano 180 Zeta Pro Nanoparticle Characterizer
Applications
- Characterization of nanoparticle size distribution, stability, and surface structure
- Analysis of thermal-sensitive polymer systems
- Studying polymerization kinetics and reaction mechanisms
Specifications
- Dynamic light scattering (DLS), electrophoretic light scattering (ELS), and static light scattering (SLS) instrument
- Measures particle size in the range of 0.3nm – 15μm, zeta potential, and molecular weight
- Minimum sample volume: 3μL
- Programmable temperature control system
Cytiva NanoAssemblr Spark Nanoparticle Formulator
Applications
- Lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulation for delivering nucleic acid cargo (mRNA, siRNA, sgRNA, pDNA, etc.)
- Polymer nanoparticle, exosome, liposome, emulsion formulation
- Small scale production of nanoparticles for reproducible delivery screens
Specifications
- Microfluidic mixing instrument for formulating homogeneous nanoparticles of volume 25–250 μL
- Includes disposable cartridges with 2 input reservoirs to hold solutions in a 2:1 volume ratio
- 10 flow rate settings according to output volume
- Mixing time <30 seconds per nanoparticle formulation
Integra ASSIST PLUS Machine
Applications
- Multi step cell culture protocols such as media changes and transfection
- Next generation sequencing sample cleanup
- Aliquot generation
- PCR setup
- ELISA automation
- High throughput arrayed screening of samples
Specifications
- Enables automated, multi-step sterile protocols for the aspiration, dispensing, and mixing of up to 384 samples simultaneously
- 5 unique spacing-adjustable pipettes with varying volume ranges (0.5 to 1250 µL) and channels (96 and 384)
- Pairs with VIALAB software to create, edit, simulate, and export automated protocols to pipettes
- 10°, 20°, 30° angled cell culture plate mount
- Customizable pipette speeds with adjustable vertical positioning
- Includes 3 deck positions
- 8×6 1.5mL Eppendorf tube rack
Integra VIAFLO 384 machine
Applications
- Expedited cell culture protocols
- Sample transfer
- PCR setup
- Sample extraction and purification
Specifications
- Enables sterile aspiration, dispensing, and mixing of up to 384 samples simultaneously
Sartorius Incucyte S3 Live-Cell Analysis Machine
Applications
- Monitoring of cells under various experimental conditions over time
- Fluorescence-based screening assays
Specifications
- Live cell imaging capacity of up to 6 cell plates within an incubator
- Two-color (red/green) fluorescence channels
- 4X, 10X, 20X objectives on an automated turret
- Compatible with over 700 cell culture vessels
- Remote cell monitoring capability
Lonza 4D-Nucleofector 96-well Unit
Applications
- Nucleofecting cells in 96-well format
- Testing multiple conditions for assay establishment
- Screening cDNA, RNAi or CRISPR libraries
Specifications
- Modular 6 × 16-well Nucleocuvette® Plate for scalable throughput
- Up to 96 independent programs can be run per plate, processed automatically in <2 minutes
- Compatible with many cell types including primary cells
- Variable cell numbers from 10⁴–10⁶ cells per reaction
Lonza 4D-Nucleofector Y Unit
Applications
- Nucleofecting adhered cells in 24-well format
- Nucleofecting of cells at any time point during this culture period, i.e. at a later developmental stage
Specifications
- Disposable conductive polymer Dipping Electrode Arrays are inserted into standard 24-well culture plates for Nucleofection
- Compatible with many cell types including primary cells
- Range of nucleofection conditions
In Vitro Transcription
We offer equipment for in vitro transcription for the synthesis of RNA, with a dedicated BSC, thermocycler, and centrifuge.
Project Leaders
Contact Us
For all questions, email stemcell-core@gladstone.ucsf.edu.
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