Efficient and Robust Biosample Processing
The CBSR facility provides efficient and robust biosample processing, management, storage and retrieval infrastructure. The CBSR operates on a cost-recovery basis to investigators in the Canadian research community.
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Automation: The Canadian BioSample Repository uses high-throughput technologies wherever possible to improve efficiency and accuracy. We use a customized high-throughput sample handling robot, funded by Baxter Biosciences. |
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Cyrotube selection: We use cryotubes designed to fit in a standardSBS rack so that they can be used directly with multi-channel pipettors and automated workstations for high throughput assays downstream. Tubes can go directly from the freezer to the thawing station, then onto the assay platform. |
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Barcode labelling of aliquot tubes: Aliquots are stored cryotubes with a 2D barcode on the bottom for high throughput label reading, processing and assay. Racks for the cryotubes have an SBS footprint , so that they fit into any high throughput tube washing protocol, or assay system. Each rack has a barcode as well. |
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The CBSR has developed open source software to read barcodes on the bottom of multiple tubes in multiple racks at the same time on low-cost commercial flat bed scanners. The results can be exported to a spreadsheet for use in automated assay systems. |
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We provide an open-source, customized barcode labelling program. Barcoded labels are placed on patient samples at the time of the blood draw, prior to shipping to the central lab for processing and storage. The barcode labelling program allows the sample to be labelled with an anonymized study number, removing identifying data and preventing human sample handling errors. We advise the use of nylon labels for better sticking and readability of the label.
Download the label program here
Download the instruction manual here
Contact us for details on purchase of carbon-copy nylon labels.
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View the latest slideshow of our prototype Tube Cutter. |
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The Facility 
