Samples are collected by clinical research nurses from patients who agreed to participate in the biorepository and samples are coded with their UMA chart number. Whole blood is transported by Biorepository personnel from UMA to the Biorepository at the Edison Biotechnology Institute. Upon arrival at the Biorepository, samples are bar coded to protect patient identity, entered into a commercial inventory database (Freezerworks® by Dataworks Development), and immediately processed.       Samples include plasma and cell fractions obtained from patients and their first degree relatives who agreed to participate in the development of the biorepository. Plasma is aliquoted into multiple specimen containers and stored at -80C. Cell fractions are subjected to DNA and RNA fractionation, aliquoted into multiple specimen containers, and frozen at -70 to -80 degrees centigrade. For more informtaion regarding the standard operating procedure, please contact the Biorespository Coordinator.       Although the Ohio University Diabetes/Endocrine Diseases Biorepository attempts to avoid supplying tissues contaminated with highly infectious agents (e.g. hepatitis, AIDS), all materials should be handled as biohazardous. The investigator assumes all risks and responsibility in connection with the receipt, handling, storage, and use of samples. The investigator receiving these samples assumes full responsibility for informing and training all personnel in the dangers and procedures for safe handling of these and other human samples (e.g. bloodborne pathogen training). Anyone who would like to obtain samples from the Biorepository must provide evidence that they have adequate training in the use of bloodborne pathogens, as outlined by OSHA. The investigator must agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Ohio University Diabetes/Endocrine Diseases Biorepository, the Appalachian Rural health Institute, and the Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine from any claims, liability, costs, and damages.             Diabetes / Endocrine Diseases Biorepository Ohio University 101 Konneker Research Labs, The Ridges, Athens, Ohio 45701 740-597-2114 contact: Jean Thuma   Last updated: 03/22/2007