RNOH Biobank and research programme

We hold a human tissue biobank which is a satellite to the UCL/UCLH Biobank for Studying Health and Disease.

The Human Tissue Authority has provided this biobank with a Licensing number (12055) to store human material which is surplus to diagnostic requirements.

The research undertaken on the tissue and the related health records has been approved by the Leeds (East) National Research Ethics Service (NRES); York and Humber - (HEALTH RESEARCH AUTHORITY) (Reference Number: 15/YH/0311. Patients can opt to be part of our active research programme by signing the relevant Consent Form which can be downloaded (see below). Please also read our patient information sheets (see below). All patient information is anonymised.

Having access to tissue and clinical information for research is crucial for developing new ways of diagnosing disease: this will result in better treatment for patients.

You can make a difference! Please join our research programme.

How has the RNOH Biobank and research programme improved patient care? As a result of patients’ generosity, and the focused research by the team in the Cellular and Molecular Pathology Department, with support from our radiology and surgical colleagues, we have developed new markers for diagnosing chordoma, and chondrosarcoma which are now used around the world.

We have identified the genetic alterations that cause Ollier Disease and Maffucci Syndrome. We have also developed new tests for diagnosing Fibrous Dysplasia, Intramuscular Myxoma and Fibromatosis.

We are international leaders in Bone and Soft Tissue Sarcoma research, and the major contributor to the International Cancer Genome Consortium – bone project through which 500 bone tumours are being analysed in depth for their genetic alterations.

When you come to RNOH for your surgery, you will probably be approached by one of our Biobank Team and asked if you wish to donate your tissue for research. You will be provided with an Information Sheet but if this does not happen you can contact us directly. If you do not want to do consent to participation in research, just say so. This will not affect your treatment in any way. You may also change your mind at any time and withdraw your consent if you choose to.