What kind of biospecimens does YouChicago routinely collect?
- OCT & FFPE tumor/normal (leftover) tissue
- blood for serum and DNA isolation
How can I withdraw biospecimens collected under the YouChicago protocol?
1. Familiarize yourself with the Biobanking Access and Utilization policy found at
Biobanking access and utilization policy | Biospecimen Management (uchicago.edu)
2. Email youchicagobiobank@uchicagomedicine.org.
2. Submit a request using the link found at Biospecimen requests | Biospecimen Management (uchicago.edu)
3. The request will be reviewed by the YouChicago Research Coordinator and the UCCCC Biospecimen Committee. The YouChicago Research Coordinator will inform you of the outcome of the review process.
4. If the request is approved, place a biospecimen request using LabVantage | Human Tissue Resource Center (uchicago.edu). HTRC will reach out to you for sample pickup.
Can YouChicago help collect my samples? For example, would you be able to collect blood or fresh tissue for generation of organoids or cell lines?
We could possibly collect your biospecimens through the YouChicago umbrella protocol. Please contact us to discuss your project.
What are the advantages to using the YouChicago protocol for biospecimen collection?
There are several advantages:
- Convenience for PIs who will not have to write their own collection protocol
- Convenience of having the YouChicago CRC do upfront screening, consenting, and coordinating
- PIs collecting under our umbrella protocol receive an additional 30% subsidy applicable to HTRC biobanking fees
What resources are available for collecting other biospecimen types?
Consenting and collection of other biospecimens and from other Investigator-Initiated protocols other than YouChicago are offered through Biofluids. Per-patient user fees apply: $62.50 for consenting & $50 for coordination. Please email jramirez@uchicagomedicine.org to discuss your study and check availability.
Can you help expedite delivery of fresh tissue from the Operating Room to Pathology?
This is a special service provided by Biofluids. A user fee of $50/patient will be applied. Please email jramirez@uchicagomedicine.org for availability.
Where are biobanking specimens processed and stored?
Biospecimens are processed, tracked, stored, and distributed by the HTRC.
How do I contact YouChicago?
Please email youchicagobiobank@uchicagomedicine.org.