Specimen Procurement (BioNet)

The Biological Materials Procurement Network (BioNet) helps researchers prospectively procure high-quality human specimens while ensuring patient care and confidentiality.

BioNet is an IRB-approved, centralized human specimen procurement program at the University of Minnesota. BioNet works hand-in-hand with Anatomic Pathology to:

• Ensure patients properly consent for research
• Assist/expedite the transport of tissues from procedure rooms directly to Pathology
• Ensure specimens are properly documented for research after diagnostic needs are met by Pathology
• Process research specimens in a high-quality, consistent manner

Services Provided:

• Patient chart review and case identification
• Informed consent
• Procurement of tissues and biofluids
• Custom processing according to standard operating procedures
• Specimen documentation, coding, and release

Location

BioNet operations currently cover three medical centers: University of Minnesota Medical Center (UMMC), Fairview Riverside Hospital, and M Health Clinics and Surgery Center (CSC). Most specimen processing takes place in the Pathology Gross Rooms, which are in close proximity to procedure rooms. This is ideal for the rapid retrieval and processing of specimens.

BioNet staff offices are located in C338 Mayo Building.