Policy on biological tissue sampling and destructive analyses

The sampling of biological tissues and destructive analyses require further review by the REST[ES] Executive Committee (EC), and additional delays are to be expected. REST[ES]’s primary concern is that the donor’s body be used to its full potential, while maintaining a balance of preservation for future research projects. That is why appropriate measures must be taken for all requests to minimize the loss or damage of biological tissues.

Section 1. Submission of a Biological Tissue Sampling Request

 Any researcher wishing to sample biological tissues or perform destructive analyses must complete Section 4 on biological tissue sampling and destructive analyses of the Project Proposal Form.

 The information fields to be completed on the form are intended to:

1. Address the significant scientific benefits that will result from the research.
2. Justify the choice of biological material to be sampled in relation to the study.
3. Demonstrate that the research protocol involves the least possible destruction of tissue using the most minimally invasive methods to achieve the study objectives and that the study itself is not an unnecessary duplication of previous research.
4. Provide explicit details of the sampling method and analytical framework of the study.
5. Ensure the samples’ chain of custody.
6. Determine whether the sampled materials will be returned after analysis.
7. Ensure that the researcher has the technical skills, funding and adequate equipment to carry out the study.

The researcher must mitigate invasive destruction by casting, photographing, radiographing, measuring, or following any other appropriate documentation procedure prior to sampling. All costs associated with this mitigation will be the responsibility of the researcher. Documentation of materials to be destroyed and submission of costs are required before sampling is permitted.

 

Section 2. Review Process for Biological Tissue Sampling Requests

In addition to reviewing the project proposal according to the three objectives outlined in the Research Protocol, the EC review process performs two additional checks for biological tissue sampling requests:  1) validating that the potential for knowledge gained far outweighs the loss of biological materials, and  2) ensuring that any research request minimizes the potential for destruction, loss, or alteration of donors’ soft and bone tissues.

If the project proposal is approved, the researcher will have to complete and sign the Research Protocol and the Policy on Biological Tissue Sampling and Destructive Analyses before sampling is permitted. REST[ES] management will then work with the researcher to facilitate sampling of the requested biological tissues.