BMP Frequently Asked Questions

• Who can use the services of BMP?
• How do I request samples from BMP?
• I’m not certain what I need. How do I do a query of the BMP inventory?
• How do I get samples to Research Histology for slides and stains?
• How do I get DNA/RNA isolated from samples? How do I get QC for nucleic acid preps?
• How do I find a pathologist?
• How do I arrange QC by a pathologist to ascertain percentage tumor/normal in a sample?

Who can use the services of BMP?

University of Utah faculty, including Huntsman Cancer Institute investigators. BMP is not allowed to send biological samples to outside investigators, unless they are collaborators of HCI PIs. This may require a Material Transfer Agreement from the university’s Technology & Venture Commercialization (TVC) office.

Outside investigators who are participants in the ORIEN network will have access to BMP biospecimens, upon approval by the Total Cancer Care team.

How do I request samples from BMP?

Please email to BMP-Biorepository@hci.utah.edu with your completed request form. We will respond with an estimated timeline for dispersal of the samples. Please note that you need to have a current project registration with BMP. Pre-approval by the appropriate Disease Center may also be required for release of samples.

I’m not certain what I need. How do I do a query of the BMP inventory?

You can run a simple query of the itBioPath application yourself or obtain assistance from RISR for a more involved query.

How do I get samples to Research Histology for slides and stains?

After appropriate samples are determined, BMP can transfer blocks to Research Histology or arrange for access to clinical blocks. Please note that you must have an ARUP account for histology charges, which are separate from BMP charges. Email for more information.

How do I get DNA/RNA isolated from samples? How do I get QC for nucleic acid preps?

BMP can transfer blood or tissue samples directly to CTRC for routine DNA isolation, or the BMP Molecular Diagnostics group can prepare high-quality DNA/RNA via the Qiagen AllPrep DNA/RNA/miRNA Universal kit. Quantitation and quality reports are generated via Nanodrop, Qubit, and TapeStation.

How do I find a pathologist?

The BMP Shared Resource requires that researchers collaborate with a pathologist to confirm the identity and diagnosis of biospecimens. In addition, pathologists can assist with identifying the best specimen for molecular analysis. Please visit the ARUP Anatomic Pathology Experts page to find a pathologist who specializes in your research area.

• ARUP Anatomic Pathology Experts
• University of Utah Department of Pathology

How do I arrange QC by a pathologist to ascertain percentage tumor/normal in a sample?

You must have a collaborative arrangement established with a pathologist as part of your project registration with BMP. BMP or the BMP Medical Director, Eric Snyder (eric.snyder@hci.utah.edu), can help with this, if needed. Once an agreement is in place, BMP can transfer slides to the pathologist for QC review. BMP can help with interpretation once the QC evaluation is completed.