A bank is a collection of data, information, and/or different types of bio specimens, in which the contributing subjects have consented to “future unspecified research” so that the bank contents can be used without re-consenting subjects.
The terms “local” and “distant” refer to control of the bank rather than geographic location. Local banks are under the supervision of the MCW IRB, and managed by an MCW PI, regardless of their geographic location. Distant banks are not under the control and supervision of MCW.
The PI in charge of the bank defines who has access by filing bank policies and procedures with the IRB. To access a bank a researcher needs to have the permission of the bank’s PI, as well as MCW IRB approval. If a PI wishes to change the criteria for those allowed access to the bank, an Amendment to the Banking Protocol will need to be submitted.
No. A Study can access or contribute to multiple banks. Likewise, a bank may allow access for multiple Studies as well as receive contributions from multiple Studies and other banks
No, a bank can be selected in eBridge in any state. However, new entries under the tabs “Contributing to Bank” and “Accessing the Bank” will not appear until the bank is in an Approved state. (Note: the availability of the tabs is dependent upon the banking Study version as well.)