What types of tissue specimens are available?
AGR has an inventory of commonly requested specimen types, but can also prepare specimens based on researcher request.  Virtually any tissue type can be obtained, including both normal tissues and those with pathology.

Can AGR provide specific tissue types?
Yes.  Given a sufficient lead time, AGR can recover tissue on an individualized request basis.

What information will be sent with the specimens?
Every specimen is accompanied by a synopsis of the donor's pertinent medical and social history, including cause of death, medical concerns, height, weight, etc.  The donor information document corresponds to the unique identification number of the donor specimen.  No information regarding the identity of the donor will be provided.

Is AGR tissue tested for contagious diseases?
All donors obtained through AGR's Whole Body Donor Program are serologically tested for the presence of contagious disease (i.e. HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and Syphillis).  In addition, additional serology tests can be requested and run on archive samples with enough notice.

Does AGR ship internationally?
Yes, AGR currently ships to over a dozen countries, including Taiwan, China, Japan, the UK, Greece, Germany, Sweden, Poland, and Spain.

How long does the application approval process take?
Researchers with requests of academic and scientific merit are generally approved within 24 hours.

What is the turnaround time on shipping requested specimens?
While advance notice is generally preferable to obtain the best specimen, next day shipping is available on most orders at no additiional charge.

Can tissue be pre-thawed?
If requested, AGR can pre-thaw tissue in advance of shipment and have it ready for use upon the requested date of receipt.

Can tissues obtained from AGR be shared with other organizations?
AGR can provide permission on a case-by-case basis to share tissue with or transfer tissue to other ogranizations.  Requests for permission must be written and detail the organization and the proposed use of the tissue.

Must tissue obtained from AGR be returned to AGR?
AGR does not require that tissue be returned for final disposition.  Tissue must be disposed of in accordance with local, state and federal guidelines or regulations.  If a crematory is to be used, AGR may not send documents that would breach the identity or other confidential information of the donor or their family.  AGR may send a letter to the crematory stating that permission for final disposition is on file at AGR.  The tissue may be returned to AGR.

Are the procedures performed in surgical skills labs confidential?
Absolutely.  AGR hosts many companies who are developing proprietary medical devices and the confidentiality of these prototypes and development sessions is paramount.  AGR considers privacy, of clients and donors, to be of the utmost importance.

 

If you have additional questions, please feel free to contact us.  AGR has a history of being able to accommodate its clients, and we look forward to demonstrating why researchers and educators prefer working with us.