TRI’s Biorepository Focus on Prospective Collection Services

We’ve switched more from the traditional biorepository of banked specimens to prospective specimen and consented collections services. These specimens have a richer data set and subject’s health record data associated with these biospecimens is much more valuable to researchers and scientists, as they not only have the lab results, but also relevant clinical information, such as medication history and disease states.

For example, a researcher for a particular study may need to know additional health information, such as medication or supplement use, or lifestyle history such as smoking status. Many labs do not ask for that information during sample collection or when providing other biological samples. With consenting, our research coordinators first consent the subject, obtain the needed biological samples, and then gather health and non-health-related information requested for specific research studies.

In general, freshly collected samples are more suitable for research purposes. Samples can degrade over time, even when stored frozen. By providing freshly collected samples, the Biorepository is able to provide a closer representation to the in vivo status. We do recognize there is always high demand for biological samples, and recognize that banked specimens still can provide valuable and meaningful data.

The Biorepository’s new location will include a research area dedicated to prospective collection services. Many people are interested in participating in research studies that help to advance healthcare. We respect privacy, and under appropriate circumstances, individuals who have a sample collected at a TriCore patient care center may be eligible to participate in a research study.