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Institutional Biorepository

The Institutional Biorepository Core serves as a resource to process, track, store and retrieve biological samples for future research needs. The Institutional Biorepository collection is comprised of human blood samples, tissues and other biological materials donated by patients. These samples are linked with information about their health, demographics, medical care and responses to medical treatment. We are accredited by the College of American Pathologists-Biorepository Accreditation Program (CAP-BAP). The CAP’s Accreditation Programs are universally regarded as the most rigorous choice to meet high quality laboratory standards.

The Institutional Biorepository offers safe and secure specimen storage for Penn State investigators’ research needs. The samples are stored in barcoded and well labeled cryovials in either -80°C freezers or liquid nitrogen vapor phase to preserve them for many years. All freezer areas are access restricted. Storage location, demographics, and health information for the specimens donated to the Institutional Biorepository are stored in access-controlled computer systems within highly secure networks.

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Overview

Access to Data and Samples

All investigators wishing to use biospecimens and/or clinical data associated with the specimens will be required to submit an Access Request form outlining the proposed use. If you require PHI you must have an approved IRB protocol allowing for PHI for your research and indicate the IRB protocol number on the request form. All requests are routed to the PRIDE Access Committee. The Access Committee will review requests and inform investigators in writing of their approval or non-approval. All non-Penn State investigators must have a Penn State investigator as a collaborator.

To access data and samples from the Institutional Biorepository, or to consult on a prospective research study, contact institute staff at 855-369-3540 or IBR@pennstatehealth.psu.edu.

Those interested may also submit online requests for PRIDE study samples or for COVID-positive patient samples..

Submit a PRIDE sample request Submit a COVID sample request

Investigators who obtain samples from the Institutional Biorepository must acknowledge the Institutional Biorepository:

“The Institutional Biorepository (RRID:SCR_025728) services and samples used in this project were funded, in part, by The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine via the Office of the Vice Dean of Research and Graduate Students and the Pennsylvania Department of Health using Tobacco Settlement Funds (CURE). The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the University or College of Medicine. The Pennsylvania Department of Health specifically disclaims responsibility for any analyses, interpretations or conclusions.”

Contact the Core