Frequently Asked Questions
Biorepository Introduction
- Where is the Duke-IGSP Biorepository located?
- How do I contact the Biorepository?
- How do I initiate a biospecimen banking project?
- How are specimens tracked in the Biorepository?
- Will other researchers by able to access and request samples I have banked in the IGSP Biospecimen Repository?
Sample Processing Services
- What samples volumes can be processed on the AUTOPURE LS DNA processing system?
- What yields can I expect from the AUTOPURE LS?
- Can the AUTOPURE LS process DNA from samples types other than blood?
- For what downstream applications can the DNA purified by the AUTOPURE LS be used?
Biorepository Introduction
Where is the Duke-IGSP Biorepository located?
The Duke-IGSP Biorepository is a joint effort between the IGSP, Research Triangle Institute, and Duke Pathology / School of Medicine Research Foundation. The Duke Biorepository 'Portal' is located in Davison M229 (Duke South, Yellow Zone), and the long-term storage facility is located at RTI in Research Triangle Park.
How do I contact the Biorepository?
Contact information is located here.
How do I initiate a biospecimen banking project?
To discuss and plan a new project, please Contact Us. Following an initial assessment of program needs, a biobanking plan will be developed, including process mapping, recommended methods, and anticipated costs.
How are specimens tracked in the Biorepository?
Each sample will be labeled with unique ID, accessioned into the MAW3® biobanking informatics system, and stored in appropriately monitored and secure ultra-low freezers. MAW3® is a robust, flexible, scalable, and secure informatics platform, supporting the integrated collection, annotation, storage, and distribution of biospecimens and data through a web-based interface. Barcode-based chain-of-custody and inventory management functionalities track the precise location and status of every specimen at all times.
Will other researchers by able to request samples I have banked in the IGSP Biorepository?
No. Samples will only be available to investigators with approved access (by study PI). Ideally, we'd like to make a subset of de-identified data available for browsing or query by registered researchers. However, these researchers will not be allowed to request samples, and must contact the study PI to discuss collaboration or access to samples.
Sample Processing Services
What samples volumes can be processed on the AUTOPURE LS DNA processing system?
The AUTOPURE LS can run whole blood samples from 1-10 ml in size. When setting up a run, the operator is able to select either a 1-5 ml protocol or a 5.1-10 ml protocol. Samples between 1 and 5 ml are purified together, and samples between 5.1 and 10 ml are purified together.
What yields can I expect from the AUTOPURE LS?
From 10 ml of whole blood, you can expect to obtain between 300 and 500 µg of high molecular weight DNA that is 100-200 kb in size. You can expect a minimum yield of 70%, although observed yields are routinely greater than 90%.
Can the AUTOPURE LS process DNA from samples types other than blood?
Protocols are available for buffy coat, packed cells, cultured cells, buccal cells, and cell lysates.
For what downstream applications can the DNA purified by the AUTOPURE LS be used?
The AUTOPURE LS purification results in the effective removal of PCR inhibitors and other contaminants that might interfere with downstream analyses. The purified DNA is high molecular weight (100-200 kb in size) and suitable for downstream analyses ranging from Southern blotting and PCR, to whole-genome SNP genotyping. The DNA has an average A260/A280 ratio in the range of 1.7 to 2.0, making it well suited for archiving.
For more information, please Contact Us.