ETOP IBCSG Partners Foundation Biobank

ETOP IBCSG Partners Foundation

As of July 1, 2021, the two highly respected clinical and translational cancer research foundations ETOP (European Thoracic Oncology Platform) and IBCSG (International Breast Cancer Study Group) have merged to form the joint entity ETOP IBCSG Partners Foundation. The new foundation brings together two strong and equal partners. By joining forces, the position as an international academic research organization is further strengthened www.etop.ibcsg.org.

The ETOP IBCSG Partners Foundation Biobank contains formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) primary and metastatic breast cancer specimens, from over 30,000 patients included in clinical trials conducted by the Group since 1981. The specimens are used for Central Pathology Review by the reference pathologist appointed for the trial, and for translational research specified in the trial protocol or proposed as future research by qualified investigators. In selected trials whole blood, serum and plasma samples were also collected. This highly valued material is available for correlative studies that relate markers to clinical outcomes documented during the conduct and follow-up of our clinical trials – research that improves our understanding of the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer leading to precision medicine.

Biobank Policy (English)
Biobank Policy (French)
Biobank Policy (German)

Availability of material in ETOP IBCSG Partners Foundation Biobank

Translational Research Coordination Office

Overall management of pathology and translational research projects, administration, organization and oversight, TRWG secretariat, monitoring of activities of the Central Pathology Office Milan and Biobank. Primary point of contact for sites for questions related to biological material requirements.

Translational Research Working Group (TRWG)

Researchers may submit sound scientific proposals to access biological material from the ETOP IBCSG Partners Foundation Biobank. The Translational Research Working Group (TRWG), a panel of experts, ensures that the proposals address fundamental and relevant biological questions. Details on how to submit project proposals and a template for the letter of intent can be downloaded under ‘Research’, Letter of Intent template.

Letter of Intent for Research Proposal

Central Pathology Office (CPO)

Information concerning submission and shipment of biological material can be found under the trial specific section. The ETOP IBCSG Partners Foundation PCO is responsible for the collection, tracking, banking, and dissemination of all FFPE pathology material. All of this, and ultimately also research using the tissue or blood samples is done under strict observation of patients’ rights and confidentiality.