Cornell Aerospace Medicine Biobank

• The Cornell Aerospace Medicine Biobank (CAMbank) is a cutting-edge repository dedicated to the preservation of specimens obtained during spaceflight experiments. These invaluable samples are meticulously cataloged for molecular profiling and sequencing, offering a treasure trove of data for the next frontier of aerospace medical research.

• CAMbank follows ISBER biobanking guidelines, ensuring the integrity and reliability of every specimen under our care.

  OpenSpecimen Web Portal will launch soon, eventually offering researchers and scientists seamless access to some of the samples from our collection. Please contact us for more information.

Sample list

7 Missions

18 Astronauts

6 Controls

7,299 Preflight samples

1,056 Inflight samples

7,144 Postflight samples

15,499 Total samples

CAMBank Methodology

Sample Collection

• CAMbank employs stringent protocols for the collection of bio specimens from astronauts during various space missions. Our sample collection protocol adheres to the highest standards of biosafety, minimizing contamination and preserving the molecular integrity of the collected samples. Key components of our sample collection protocol include:
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  Pre-Mission Collection: Astronauts undergo pre-mission sample collection sessions to establish baseline data before spaceflight, enabling comparative analyses with samples collected during and after missions.
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  In-Flight Collection: When possible during space missions, bio specimens such as blood, urine, saliva, and tissue samples are collected using specialized equipment and procedures optimized for microgravity environments.
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  Post-Flight Collection: Upon return to Earth, astronauts provide additional bio specimens to capture any physiological changes or effects resulting from spaceflight or return to gravity. Post-flight samples are collected at at several time points to longitudinally assess the effects of spaceflight and return to gravity.
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  For more detailed information on our sample collection protocol, please refer to our Sample Collections Manuscript


Sample Processing

• Ensuring the quality and usability of bio specimens requires meticulous processing procedures. CAMbank's sample processing protocol encompasses a series of standardized steps aimed at preparing samples for long-term storage and downstream analysis. Key aspects of our sample processing protocol include:
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  Initial Processing: Upon receipt of samples, they undergo initial processing steps such as centrifugation, aliquoting, and labeling to facilitate downstream analyses and storage.
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  Quality Control Checks: Samples undergo rigorous quality control checks to assess their integrity, concentration, and purity, ensuring that only high-quality samples are included in CAMbank's repository.
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  Data Documentation: Detailed documentation of sample processing steps, including timestamps, personnel involved, and any deviations from standard protocols, is maintained to ensure traceability and reproducibility.
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  For more detailed information on our sample processing protocol, please refer to our Sample Processing Protocol Documents: CPT tubes - SST tubes - BCT Tubes


Sample Storage

• Proper storage is paramount to maintaining the stability and viability of bio specimens over time. CAMbank employs state-of-the-art storage facilities and protocols to ensure the long-term preservation of samples, as well as an OpenSpecimen Portal for sample tracking. Key features of our sample storage protocol include:
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  Optimized Storage Conditions: Samples are stored under carefully controlled conditions, including temperature, humidity, and light exposure, to minimize degradation and maintain sample integrity.
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  Barcoding and Inventory Managemen: Each sample is assigned a unique barcode and tracked within an OpenSpecimen portal, allowing for easy retrieval and monitoring of sample usage.
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  Monitoring and Redundancy: To mitigate the risk of sample loss, CAMbank implements monitoring systems and redundancy measures to safeguard against unforeseen events.
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  Link to OpenSpecimen Portal coming soon!

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CAMBank Governance

Biobanking Standards

• Alignment with ISBER Guidelines

  CAMbank is dedicated to aligning its operations with the principles and recommendations outlined by ISBER. Key areas of alignment include:

  • Ethical Oversight: AMbank upholds ethical standards in the collection, storage, and distribution of bio specimens, ensuring that donor rights, privacy, and confidentiality are respected at all times. We adhere to informed consent procedures and ethical review processes to protect the interests of donors and promote transparency in research.
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    Ethical Considerations: CARB assesses whether proposed research projects adhere to ethical guidelines and regulations governing the use of human biological samples, particularly those collected from astronauts.
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    Quality Management: CAMbank implements robust quality management systems to maintain the integrity and reliability of stored specimens. Our facilities adhere to stringent environmental controls, monitoring protocols, and documentation practices to minimize variability and ensure sample stability over time.
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    Data Management: CAMbank employs secure data management systems to track and catalog bio specimens, ensuring accurate record-keeping and traceability throughout the sample lifecycle. We prioritize data security, confidentiality, and integrity to safeguard sensitive information and facilitate data sharing for research purposes.
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    Sample Collection and Processing: CAMbank follows standardized protocols for the collection, processing, and storage of bio specimens, as recommended by ISBER. Our procedures are designed to minimize pre-analytical variability, preserve sample integrity, and facilitate downstream analyses while adhering to biosafety guidelines and best practices.
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    Training and Education: CAMbank invests in training and education programs to ensure that staff members are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their roles effectively and in accordance with ISBER guidelines. Continuous learning and professional development are integral to maintaining high standards of bio banking practice.

  
  Commitment to Continuous Improvement

  CAMbank is committed to continuous improvement and strives to stay updated with the latest developments and advancements in bio banking standards. We actively participate in ISBER working groups, conferences, and initiatives to contribute to the evolution of best practices and promote innovation in the field of bio banking. By adhering to ethical principles, implementing robust quality management systems, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, CAMbank aims to facilitate scientific research and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in space medicine and beyond.

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