Core - Biomarker Reference Laboratory (BRL)

The Biomarker Reference Laboratory (BRL) will be led by Dr. Sanford Stass and as a component of the BCC will develop, refine, and standardize the biomarkers assays developed by the Biomarker Development Laboratory. This BRL is a continuation of the University of Maryland Baltimore Biomarker Reference Laboratory. UMB-BRL has for the past 15 years provided active support of the EDRN, including testing of candidate biomarkers, development of assays and technologies, and standardization of assay methods in collaboration with multiple investigators in the EDRN. The proposed BRL includes a multi-disciplinary team of directors/co- investigators and staff with broad knowledge, experience and expertise in application of technology for biomarkers including reagent and assay development and implementation, validation of laboratory methodology and assays, quality control for reagents and technologies, evaluation of accuracy, precision, reproducibility and characteristics of performance including sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values. The BRL will bring DNA methylation biomarkers from the BDL into a CLIA compliant laboratory using developed standard operating procedures (SOPs), and extensive experience in collaborative studies in biomarker validation.