Biospecimen Translational Research Analysis Core (BioTRAC)

Overview of Services

The Biospecimen and Translational Research Analysis Core (BioTRAC) is a shared research resource within the WVU Cancer Institute that supports clinical and translational cancer research by providing access to high-quality, freshly collected human biospecimens.
BioTRAC is dedicated exclusively to cancer research and is purpose-built to meet the needs of WVUCI investigators. By focusing on the collection and distribution of fresh tissue—one of the most scientifically valuable and time-sensitive specimen types—we enable studies that require rapid access to human samples paired with meaningful clinical context.
Our team supports investigators across the full biospecimen lifecycle, bridging patient care and research. Research associates obtain informed consent, collect blood and tissue specimens, and curate a robust, deidentified clinical data catalog that supports clinical correlation and translational discovery.
BioTRAC also provides specialized laboratory services to ensure biospecimens are research-ready. Dedicated technical staff process samples for investigator-initiated studies and clinical trials in accordance with study protocols and regulatory requirements. Histology services are available, including tissue processing, staining, embedding, and slide preparation.
By integrating fresh tissue collection, clinical annotation, and expert processing within a cancer-focused framework, BioTRAC serves as a critical infrastructure for translating clinical observations into laboratory discovery and advancing patient-centered cancer research. 

Please remember to acknowledge support for BioTRAC in all your publications and grant applications: Specimens were provided by the West Virginia University Biospecimen Translational Research Analysis Core (BIOTRAC) which has been supported by the WVU Cancer Institute and NIH grants P20GM103434 and U54GM104942.

Leadership

Brian Boone, MD | Director | 304-293-2428 | brian.boone@hsc.wvu.edu

Kristen Ranson, MS, ACRP-CP | Manager | 304-293-7380 | ksranson@hsc.wvu.edu

Location and hours of operation

Links and Resources

• https://hsc.wvu.edu/research-and-graduate-education/research/core-facilities/biospecimen-translational-research-analysis-core-biotrac/
• https://wvumedicine.org/our-care/institutes/cancer/our-research/shared-research-resources/

Contacts