Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Institutional Tissue Bank?
The "ITB" functions as a central repository for human specimens and data. It is a grant funded, fee-for-service facility designed to assist MD Anderson investigators in a variety of research efforts. Its primary function is the collection and distribution of surgical specimens by request.
What should I do to request ITB assistance?
Send an e-mail to ITBteam@mdanderson.org or tissuebank@mdanderson.org with a general description of your study and the type of assistance being requested.
What are the requirements for ITB registration?
In order to register a protocol with ITB, the following are required:
- An active, IRB-approved protocol
- Documentation (e-mail or hard copy memorandum) from the study’s PI to indicate which individuals are authorized to request and/or retrieve specimens on behalf of the primary investigator. Please include the CARE ID for each individual.
- A signed billing authorization form including the cost center to assess charges.
For further assistance with protocol registration, please send an e-mail to ITBteam@mdanderson.org or tissuebank@mdanderson.org.
What happens after the required documents for protocol registration have been provided to the ITB?
When the required information has been received and registration is complete, each user associated with the protocol will receive an automated notification indicating protocol registration has been completed and access has been granted to BIMS (Biospecimen Information Management System).
Whom do I contact when I am having trouble with BIMS (Biospecimen Information Management System)?
If you have never accessed BIMS, please request access via OneAccess application; also contact the ITB to confirm that you are listed as personnel on a registered protocol. If you are associated with a bank or study and are having trouble accessing BIMS, please submit a BIMS troubleshooting request to BIMS-Support@mdanderson.org detailing the problem.
Is there a fee involved in tissue collection?
The ITB operates on a fee-for-service model and all fees reflect the actual expenses of cost recovery in providing services. Such cost recovery is necessary to meet the requirements set forth by the Cancer Center Support Grant (CCSG). Please see the Services page or email ITBTeam@mdanderson.org for further details.
How do I verify/validate patient consent to the Institutional Banking Protocol?
Patient consent verification is done via BIMS (Biospecimen Information Management System) using the patient name or medical number.