Our Biorepositories
Emory University’s Department of Urology Biorepositories provides investigators with high-quality biospecimens from patients diagnosed with a urologic cancer. First established in 2003, over 4,700 patients have participated. Biospecimens, including serum, plasma, buffy coat, urine, and tissue, from the Urology Biorepositories have been used for biomarker and translational research in prostate, kidney and bladder cancers.
An intra-tumoral niche maintains and differentiates stem-like CD8 T cells.
Support Our Biorepositories
The ongoing success of our biorepositories is made possible by contributions from partners and collaborators like you. Your contributions to medical research through the support of our biorepositories will increase opportunities for world class innovation and discovery. Donations will provide support for continuing biospecimen collection, storage and distribution, support personnel needs, as well as supplies used in processing and sample storage maintenance. Funding for personnel involved in the daily operations and maintenance of the Urology Biorepositories includes:
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Clinical Research Coordinators: CRCs identify potential participants, meeting with them to explain the Biorepositories and obtain informed consent. In addition, the CRCs are responsible for maintaining the enrollment logs and the information databases.
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Research Specialists: The research specialists process the biospecimens, store samples, maintain storage logs, and retrieve samples upon request. They are also responsible for maintaining standard operating procedures as well as maintaining equipment.
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Scientific Lead: The Scientific Lead directs the Biorepositories. This includes identifying and train staff, guaranteeing coverage, maintaining supplies and budgets, maintaining SOPs and quality control. The Lead works with a team to maintain strict adherence to HIPAA regulations and IRB protocols as well as confidentiality of patients’ medical records as per Emory University and Healthcare policies. Additionally, the lead helps to manage research projects, working with clinical and basic science researchers interested in using samples from the biorepositories.