Surgical Tissue Donor Program

The Virginia G. Piper Center at Scottsdale Healthcare in partnership with the International Genomics Consortium (IGC) is participating in the Expression Project for Oncology (expO). ExpO is a ground-breaking study to help scientists expand and expedite cancer research advancements.

About expO:

The goal of expO is to accelerate discoveries in cancer research by creating a free public database containing information from the genomes of collected tumors. Doctors and scientists can use this information to study how genes are working in different types of cancer and develop better diagnoses and treatments for the future.

How does it work?

Surrounding surgery to remove a tumor, a clinical research associate will meet with you to discuss participation in expO. When a tumor is removed and the diagnosis is made, excess tissue is usually earmarked to be discarded. If a patient decides to participate in the expO project (and if there is enough tumor tissue available for a sample), then a portion of the to-be -discarded tissue will be collected and frozen for use by expO. In some cases, the clinical research associate may also require a small blood sample to accompany the tissue.

Who is eligible to participate?

You are eligible if you are 18 years of age or older and can provide informed consent.

Why should you participate?

While there are no expected immediate medical benefits to you, your part in this study may lead to findings that could benefit the health of future generations.

Contacts and information to enroll in expO

• Denise Filley, Clinical Research Associate (480) 323-3994 
• Dr. Sharon Gburek, Primary Investigator

For more information on expO, click here for our brochure.