BioRepository
The Biorepository plays a fundamental role in the Kidney Clinical Research Unit (KCRU). Researchers place great importance
on having easy access to their biospecimens.
The Biorepository provides an infrastructure of automation, storage capacity,
biospecimen tracking and distribution systems, security, and information management to warrant adoption by research
conducting basic research, drug discovery, and clinical trials. The Biorepository is a key driver for researchers
requiring ultra-low temperature freezers and laboratory information management systems.
Biospecimens, Biorepositories, and their Role in Biomedical Research
A biospecimen is any kind of biological material that reflects the health or disease state of the donor. Example biospecimens
include blood, serum, solid tissues, urine, spinal fluid, stool, nail clippings, and hair strands. For more than 100 years,
researchers have collected biospecimens, often along with clinical information pertaining to the donor of that biospecimen.
The KCRU Biorepository has been established for standardized and consolidated biospecimen collection, storage, processing,
and distribution. Research conducted by the KCRU, and other agencies outside of London Health Sciences Centre, rely on this
Biorepository to fully exploit the biospecimens for research, drug discovery, and/or clinical aims.
KCRU Biorepository Equipment
- Cold spin centrifuge
- Warm spin centrifuge
- Clinitek urine analysis machine
- 8 x -80°C ultra-low freezers
KCRU Biorepository Capabilities
- Preparation and distribution of specimen collection kits as per protocol requirements.
- Separation of whole blood into all components.
- Sample protection, storage and preparation
- Storage at the best temperature for sample type
- Database tracking of aliquot specimens
- Sample preparation within 24 hours to maintain specimen integrity
- Aliquot parent sample into precise components (DNA, plasma, etc.)
- Sample relocation services: global shipment with tracking.
- Accurate and efficient management.
- HVAC system with back-up generators.
- Honeywell back-up alarm systems: 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.
- Secured room: restricted access by authorization only” swipe-card secured.
- Back-up emergency storage availability.