Human Biorepository

Unit info

The IFOM Biorepository is a purpose-built core facility managing the collection, processing, storage and retrieval of human biospecimens from consenting donors (eg: DNA, RNA, blood, plasma, serum, urine, stools, tissue, cell lines, tissue blocks and slides, as well as patient-derived xenografts and patient-derived organoids), which has been created particularly to meet the increasing demand of investigators wishing to pursue translational or clinical cancer research studies, and to translate knowledge from basic research into therapies. The high-quality biospecimens and clinical data are a key resource in order to develop/validate new biomarkers and therapeutics.
The dedicated platform consists of a cryogenic storage space fitted with O2 sensors and alarms for safety operations and containing two liquid nitrogen tanks where samples are stored in the vapour phase, and of separate space containing two +4°C fridges, two -20°C and two -80°C freezers (all connected to a back-up electrical generator in case of power outage), and a cabinet for the storage of paraffin-embedded tissue block and glass slides. Tubes, vials, etc, are labeled using 2D Data-Matrix barcode. Alarm sensors control liquid nitrogen level in each cryogenic unit and the temperature of mechanical freezers and refrigerators, and are connected to a centralized monitoring and recording system. Access to the sites is restricted to authorized operators through the use of individually assigned electronic badges.
Complete sample inventory, management and workflow processes at the IFOM Biorepository rely on the use of web-based HIPAA-compliant RURO FreezerPro Elite software which provides sample tracking in and out of freezers, barcode printing and plate scanners support, user authentication and permission-based access restriction to samples, freezers and other elements, full audit trails.
Standard operating procedures (SOPs), handling of disaster recovery, security, protection and privacy of sample records are implemented as set in the IARC guidelines “Common Minimum Technical Standards and Protocols for Biobanks Dedicated to Cancer” Research and ISBER best practices for repositories. Only de-identified or anonymized human specimens and associated documents are stored in the biorepository.
The IFOM Biorepository is governed by an executive committee, which through a management committee and a specimens and data access committee, serves to oversee activities and best practices, compliance with current legislations, improve workflows.