Screening of fetal stem cells for infection and cytogenetic abnormalities

Fetal stem cell transplantation may rely on material from therapeutic abortions. It is essential that the stem cell transplant does not transmit any microorganisms that may affect the fetus and that genetically abnormal cells are avoided. To evaluate such contamination, human fetal stem cells collected February 1992 - December 1993 were analyzed for bacterial and fungal growth, and the placentas were karyotyped. Four samples of 70 were positive for different pathogens. Serological screening of 43 women during this period resulted in five seroconversions and revealed one carrier of anti-HCV. Karyotyping revealed two abnormal findings out of 72 samples. Thus, the concept of using material from therapeutic abortions is safe.