What is the Resource?

The Resource provides access to formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded primary breast cancer tissue with associated clinical and follow-up data for research studies, particularly those studies focused on translating basic research findings into clinical application. The Resource database contains pathologic and clinical information linked to a large collection of breast tissue specimens that is available for research. Researchers can determine whether the Resource has the tissues and patient data they need for their individual research studies by searching the database.

The organizations contributing to the Resource have access to tissue and data from local patients in four geographically diverse areas of the United States. Participants include:

	Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA
	University of Miami, Miami, FL
	Washington University, St. Louis, MO.
	Kaiser Permanente Center For Health Research, Portland, OR

The central database is maintained at Information Management Services in Rockville, MD.

How does the Resource work?

Tissue sections will be prepared to meet the requirements of approved research protocols. The Resource will also provide clinical and outcome data, including demographic data, diagnosis, extent of disease, treatment, follow-up, recurrence, survival, and vital status. The Resource cannot provide information that would identify any patient or family member. There is a charge for the preparation of sections and for shipping. Studies on Resource material may be funded by Federal or non-Federal sources. The Resource does not provide funding for research.

Who can obtain specimens?

Specimens and data are available for research judged meritorious by the Research Evaluation Panel (REP), an independent scientific review group. The Resource collection is particularly well-suited for evaluation of diagnostic and prognostic markers since it includes primary breast cancer tissue with associated clinical and outcome data. The Resource will document the availability of the specimens required for approved studies to support applications for research funding. The Resource is available both to academic and commercial researchers.

Are there charges for Resource services?

Once your application has been approved by the CBCTR, your requested tissue will be prepared and shipped.

There will be a standard "per case" charge which will include four 4/5-micron slides per case at no additional charge. Additional slides and special cutting requests will be charged per the table below.

Specimens will not be shipped until processing fees and shipping charges are paid.

Will the Resource provide other services?

Other services such as special pathological evaluation (e.g., grading), or clinical information beyond that normally provided, may be available by collaboration or other agreement with the Resource investigators.

Steve Marroulis
Information Management Services, Inc.
12501 Prosperity Drive, Suite 200
Silver Spring, MD 20904
telephone:(301) 680-9770
e-mail: tissueresources@imsweb.com