Tissue Bank

Recent Recent advances in genetics and molecular biology have allowed researchers to identify genes and molecules associated with particular human diseases. This knowledge has led to the development of more effective therapies for these diseases. Examples include new treatments for breast cancer, lung cancer, asthma, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. We have only begun to investigate the genetics and molecular biology of canine diseases, but based on advances in human medicine, a great opportunity exists to make similar advances in treating canine diseases as well. To accomplish this, The Ohio State University college of Veterinary Medicine established a biospecimen repository or "tissue bank" to collect samples from dogs affected by these diseases so that the genetics and molecular biology can be more closely studied.

The Tissue Bank (Biospecimen Repository) collects samples of tumors and normal tissue from dogs and cats, and stores these tissues under controlled conditions for future use by multiple investigators. The Tissue Bank at The Ohio State University was selected by the Canine Comparative Oncology Genomics Consortium (CCOGC) as one of three veterinary institutions nationwide to participate in populating the Pfizer-CCOGC multi-institutional Tissue Bank. This National Cancer Institute-sponsored endeavor emphasizes the importance of comparative oncology research. The Tissue Bank at The Ohio State University follows the guidelines established by the CCOGC for several specific types of tumors and similar established protocols for other tumors. Tissues are collected and archived only after receiving consent from the owners. This sample bank will serve as a tremendous resource with the ultimate goal of developing new prevention and treatment strategies for dogs with a variety of illnesses.