What is the ACSR?
The ACSR is a repository that provides biospecimens to funded IRB-approved researchers in the area of HIV cancer. To accomplish this, the ACSR supports an inventory of more than 300,000 human HIV biospecimens and appropriate controls. The ACSR serves as the only comprehensive repository of specimens and clinical data reflecting both the pre-HAART and post-HAART era of the U.S. HIV epidemic and selected sites in the global pandemic.
How much do biospecimens cost?
The ACSR identifies, collects, preserves, enhances and disburses biospecimens at no cost to investigators engaged in HIV cancer studies or other HIV related investigations.
What associated data comes with the biospecimens?

The ACSR collects clinical information from each participant when available, but minimally requires gender, age, HIV status and specimen diagnosis for biospecimens to be included in the inventory. Additionally, the ACSR records other available pertinent data relevant to current HIV research goals, such as CD4 counts and treatment. For more specific information about available data, please contact the ACSR via email at contact@acsr1.com.

How many biospecimen samples can I request?

Researchers may apply to receive any number of biospecimens. The determination of how many biospecimens will be disbursed can vary with each request and will be dependent upon the availability of biospecimens, as well as the relevance of the number of requested biospecimens to the proposed study.

Do you have a catalog or a list of biospecimens that are available?

The ACSR database contains more than 300,000 individual biospecimens with associated clinical information Please follow the following like to see the most current summary of the types of cancers and specimens in the general collection. Investigators interested in requesting biospecimens are highly encouraged to address their inquiries directly to the ACSR for complete and up to date information regarding biospecimen availability.  For assistance, contact us.

Where do you get your biospecimens?

Each ACSR Regional Biospecimen Repository collects biospecimens under Office for Human Research Protections (OHRP) and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) guidelines and with local IRB approvals. Biospecimens are collected from consented individuals living with HIV; NIH-funded HIV clinical treatment trials and anonymous remnant samples from HIV surgical and autopsy biospecimens (coded and anonymous samples from pathology archived, fixed and embedded materials); as well as other biorepositories as approved by biospecimen use and material transfer agreements.

Does the ACSR distribute tissue microarrays?

Yes. The ACSR provides special biospecimen collections through tissue microarrays (TMA) and DNA libraries.

Does the ACSR provide tissue to Commercial Entities?

Yes.  The ACSR does provide biospecimens to commercial entities, with the understanding that they are provided for research purposes only. Biospecimens and their products are not sold and may not be used for commercial purposes. Additionally biospecimens must NOT be distributed to third parties for purposes of sale or producing for sale.

Does the ACSR serve investigators outside the United States?

Yes. The ACSR encourages scientific exploration and discovery in HIV cancer.

How to request specimens?

The ACSR solicits Letters of Intent (LOI) from investigators throughout the year with a minimum of paperwork. The application process is simple and straightforward. For more information, read How to Apply.

How do I know if I should fill out a Standard Form or a Feasibility (Short) Form Letter of Intent (LOI)?

The Feasibility (Short) Form LOI is designed for pilot studies where specimens are needed for test development, quality control, and/or preliminary research. The Short Form LOI allows a researcher to request up to 20 biospecimens on a one-time basis for a particular study. The Standard Form LOI is used for all other requests. For further clarification regarding the application process, please contact the ACSR via email at contact@acsr1.com

Where do I submit my LOI?

Electronic submission of completed Letters of Intent (LOIs) is preferred. For assistance, contact us.

How long does it take the ACSR to serve a request?

Notification of approval or denial of biospecimens will be emailed 1-2 weeks from Feasibility (Short) Form submissions and approximately 4-6 weeks from Standard LOI submissions.

How do I resolve webpage response and performance issues?

We are delighted to share our newly redesigned website, with a bold new look, features and enhanced navigation, including an interactive inventory explorer. Because our website is still in its beta version, there maybe be digital hiccups or virtual road blocks along the way. Your feedback is important!  Please email us at contact@acsr1.com if you encounter a broken link or feel that something should be reviewed or enhanced.

Webpage Troubleshooting

  1. Internet Explorer: Due to browser incompatibility our website and inventory explorer are not fully functional in Internet Explorer. If you are using Internet Explorer we recommend Firefox and Chrome for an optimal experience.
  2. Clearing Your Browser Cache: If you are experiencing problems displaying ACSR pages, clearing the browser cache is a good first step to try to resolve the issue. Instructions for clearing your browser cache will be different for each browser and version.
How can I access the images on the ACSR Digital Library?

Investigators requesting access to view Tissue Microarray (TMA) images are required to complete the ACSR’s Image Access Agreement.