Standing here in front of the Coriell Institute, you might not realize that this place holds some of the most important scientific discoveries in history. Founded in 1953, this non-profit medical research center was initially named the South Jersey Medical Research Foundation. The Institute is named after Dr. Lewis L. Coriell, a renowned virologist who made groundbreaking advances in aseptic cell culture.
Dr. Coriell, you see, was a pioneer in using aseptic techniques to grow human cells in a lab. This seemingly simple breakthrough revolutionized polio research, allowing scientists to grow the polio virus and develop the first vaccine. But his legacy extends beyond polio. He spearheaded the development of cell-line freezing techniques that allowed researchers to store valuable cell lines so they were always available for future research.
Today, the Coriell Institute is a global leader in biobanking, personalized medicine, cell biology, and genetics. They house several iconic collections, including the National Institute of General Medical Sciences Human Genetic Cell Repository. This incredible repository houses cells from thousands of donors, providing a rich resource for researchers around the world who are trying to solve some of our most pressing medical challenges.
The Institute is also a hub of research. They launched the Camden Personalized Medicine Collaborative in 2007, a long-term study that aims to understand the clinical utility of genetic information. They are also actively involved in studying cancer, aging, and opioid use disorder.
What started as a small laboratory focused on polio research has evolved into a global center for medical discovery. The Coriell Institute is a testament to the power of scientific discovery and the dedication of Dr. Coriell’s legacy, forever shaping the future of medicine.