Biospecimen Core

PROJECT SUMMARY – BIOSPECIMEN CORE (CORE C) Acquisition and characterization of biospecimens linked with clinical data and the development of patient­ relevant preclinical models, are essential components for effective and impactful translational research. The Dana Farber/ Harvard Cancer Center (DF/HCC) Prostate SPORE Biospecimen Core (Core C) will maintain and expand a mature prostate cancer biorepository, including blood and tissue specimens, from a diverse group of prostate cancer patients across DF/HCC who have provided consent to our clinical database and biobank protocols. Core C will provide tissue specimens and vast pathology expertise to SPORE investigators including the evaluation of both human and mouse model tissues. Core C will maintain a database of clinical data on all consented patients, linked with standardized pathology review procedures and data collection. Core C will work closely with SPORE investigators and collaborators to provide interpretative and consultative pathology services, including state­of­the­art molecular assays and imaging technologies developed at DF/HCC. Centralization of Core activities builds upon established infrastructure but does not replicate existing resources within the DF/HCC. Overall, Core C will greatly facilitate and accelerate translational research within the DF/HCC Prostate SPORE through the collection and integration of highly annotated biological material and associated clinical information.