CMRU Biorepository Team Plays Crucial Role in Clinical Trials
Cardiometabolic Research Unit manages more than 700,000 biospecimens stored at minus 80 degrees Celsius
The Cardiometabolic Research Unit (CMRU), under the direction of Thomas J. Wang, M.D., Professor and Chair of Internal Medicine, and Ambarish Pandey, M.D., M.S.C.S., Associate Professor in the Division of Cardiology, maintains a large biorepository of samples of blood and urine, in addition to COVID-19 specimens and a collection from the heart failure biobank.
We asked members of the CMRU to describe the biorepository and explain how it supports the work of clinical researchers in the Department of Internal Medicine and the entire UT Southwestern community.
Your lab conducts clinical research in the cardiometabolic arena, but it is also responsible for managing a large biorepository with over 700,000 samples stored at about minus 80 degrees Celsius (minus 112 degrees Fahrenheit). What does it take to maintain such a large collection?
While our Cardiometabolic Research Unit is buzzing with day-to-day clinical research activities, we also oversee this massive biorepository. This facility houses a variety of sample types, including blood and urine, each meticulously collected, stored, and tracked using stringent protocols and procedures. Besides samples from external multicenter clinical trials, we also have inherited biorepositories with unique characteristics like the COVID-19 biorepository and other heart failure biobanks. Our biorepository plays a crucial role in supporting our research by providing high-quality samples for numerous studies. Additionally, it ensures the integrity and reliability of the data generated from these samples, which is essential for advancing our understanding of cardiometabolic diseases.
—Elviche Lenou, M.S., Senior Research Associate
What are some key roles the team performs to keep everything running smoothly?
Our team is responsible for several essential tasks to ensure seamless operations. We maximize the use of freezer space, meticulously monitor temperature control systems, and perform regular maintenance and servicing of freezer units. Additionally, we manage inventory levels and track product expiration dates to reduce waste. Our team also coordinates with suppliers for timely restocking and promptly addresses any equipment malfunctions. Furthermore, we enforce strict safety protocols to maintain quality.
—Zubin Mehta, Intern
How do you handle emergencies, such as power failures?
Our biorepository has a strong plan to handle power outages and other emergencies. We have backup power systems to keep important equipment running and conduct regular emergency drills to ensure staff readiness. Real-time monitoring systems with alarms help us quickly detect and fix problems. We also maintain extra freezers and off-site storage for critical samples. Clear protocols prioritize the most crucial samples and equipment during emergencies. Trained staff are on-call 24/7 for immediate response, and we regularly test all systems to ensure they work properly. This comprehensive approach helps us protect valuable samples and maintain operations even in challenging situations.
—Poornima Shreenath, M.S., Research Technician
How do you manage inventory and data?
Our biorepositories use an advanced tracking system to manage specimens. Each sample gets a unique ID and is recorded in a database. The system tracks where samples are stored, how they're processed, and who handles them. It also monitors storage conditions and keeps a log of all activities. Regular checks ensure everything is accurate and specimens are in good condition.
—Thomas Philip, Intern
What are some current uses of your biorepository?
Our biorepository plays a crucial role in supporting our ongoing clinical trials by providing essential samples and aiding in the identification of suitable participants. One of our significant projects involves linking electronic health records (EHRs) with biorepository specimen analysis, which enhances the value of these specimens for clinical research. This integration allows for more comprehensive data analysis and supports the development of targeted disease management and potential new risk-focused guidelines in medicine. Additionally, our biorepository facilitates long-term health monitoring through longitudinal studies and large-scale population health research. By maintaining a diverse collection of biospecimens, we will be able to track health outcomes over time and study the progression of various diseases, ultimately contributing to improved public health strategies and interventions.
—Ambarish Pandey, M.D., M.S.C.S., Co-Director
Can you share some future plans for your biorepository?
Of course. We are using biospecimens to identify and validate biomarkers for disease diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment response. Biorepositories can provide researchers with high-quality biospecimens and associated data to study diseases, develop new therapies, and advance medical knowledge. Additionally, in the realm of drug development and personalized medicine, biorepositories will offer specimens for research to advance in tailoring treatments to individual patients.
—Thomas J. Wang, M.D., Co-Director
Who can collaborate with and access your biorepository?
Our biorepository offers a wealth of opportunities to support diverse research initiatives within the UT Southwestern community, contributing to the advancement of our knowledge in health and disease. While our lab's primary focus is on cardiometabolic research, we extend the use of our biorepository to other Principal Investigators and Industry collaborators, encouraging them to explore and partner with us in various research endeavors.
At UT Southwestern, we embrace a "no-fence" multidisciplinary approach to research. Our research unit actively promotes this philosophy by welcoming potential research partners and industry leaders who share our passion for scientific progress. We are eager to collaborate with those interested in pushing the boundaries of medical knowledge and making meaningful contributions to the field.
—Michael Mitakidis, M.D., Administrator
Dr. Wang holds the Donald W. Seldin Distinguished Chair in Internal Medicine.
To learn more about the Cardiometabolic Research Unit, visit the CMRU lab site.