1. Investigators are requested to submit an inquiry specifying the type and quantity of biospecimen they are interested in obtaining to the BTTSR manger via email ccbr@ucd.edu or skaushal@ucsd.edu or submit online inquiry form.
2. The BTTSR manager will work with the investigator to verify the availability of the requested biospecimens and further assist the investigator through the distribution process.
3. Once the biospecimen type and quantity have been confirmed against the BTTSR inventory, the investigator will be directed to submit a biospecimen request form (BRFR). The BRFR documents information about the proposed research plan as well as the number and type of biospecimens requested.
a. Pilot studies in which a minimal amount of biospecimens are needed for test development, quality control, and/or preliminary research, a researcher to request up to 5 biospecimens on a one-time basis for a particular study will be reviewed and approved by Biorepository Director/Management.( This may change upon availability of number of cases for specific type-may require review by Biospecimen Review committee)
b. All other studies is used for larger sample size will be reviewed by Biospecimen Request review committee, then will be approved by Biorepository Director/Management.
4. The BRFR is submitted to the BTTSR and then reviewed by the biospecimen request review committee (executive committee). Expert opinion may be needed by Organ Site/Disease-Based Advisory Group experts in various fields. A priority review is attached and forwarded to the BTTSR manager and directors to present to the BTTSR executive committee
Factors influencing BRFR priority review are:
a. Scientific merit of the application
b. Experience of the investigator
c. Statistical validity of the study
d. Valid sample size requested to accomplish study
5. BTTSR Executive Committee makes the final decision on approving the request for biospecimens and associated data. If the BTTSR is not able to supplement the investigator’s needs, every effort will be made to identify an appropriate resource.
6. Upon review by the (OSDBAG) and EC, a BTTSR Manager/ representative is assigned to assist with the distribution of biospecimens and/or to inquire about any scientific issues raised by the (OSDBA).
7. Once approved, an official letter/email with a commitment from the BTTSR to provide the necessary biospecimens is sent to the investigator. The approval letter may be incorporated into NIH or other grant applications.
8. After the investigator has verified that funding has been secured and IRB approvals have been obtained if needed, biospecimens are released for disbursement. Investigators who fail to obtain funding within six months of receiving their letter of approval will have the approval voided, making those biospecimens available to other investigators.
9. If the BRFR is not approved, the investigator will be provided with a letter stating the concerns of the OSDBAG and/or the BTTSR Executive Committee. A BTTSR representative will work with the investigator to resolve any remaining scientific issues in preparation for reconsideration.
10. Notification of approval or denial of biospecimens will be emailed approximately 4-6 weeks from BRFR submission and 1-2 weeks from pilot studies.
You may also complete the request form if you require assistance or wish for the BTTSR to contact you. Only members of UC San Diego and C3 (Cancer Center Council) have access to the shared resources.