For Researchers

What We Offer – Samples, Data, Services

The distinctive feature of Ontario Tumour Bank is direct control over every aspect of collection, storage and access to an extensive inventory of cancer biospecimens with rich, de-identified, health record data. With samples from more than 20,000 participants across >30 oncology disease sites, OTB is one of North America’s largest tumour banks and has over 150,000 samples and whole slide images (WSIs) in its inventory. Our complete list of oncology disease sites can be found on our inquiry form.

Tissue

• Custom prospective collections of fresh tissue
• Tumour and normal-adjacent tissue
  • Frozen
  • Formalin-Fixed Paraffin Embedded (curls, slides, sections)

Peripheral Blood

• Custom prospective collections of fresh whole blood
• Plasma
• Buffy coat

Whole Slide Images (WSIs)

• High-resolution digital tumour H&Es

Derivatives

• DNA
• RNA
• Tissue Microarray
• And other sample processing services upon request

De-Identified Health Record Data

• Demographics
• Pathology and diagnosis
• Staging
• Treatment, outcome, progression up to 5 years
• Patient history
• Sample collection details
• And more

Quality

The Ontario Tumour Bank (OTB) is committed to the highest standards of quality and regulatory compliance. OTB has a 20+ year record of supporting high-impact research.

Our standardized Quality Management System governs every step of the process—from informed consent of participants, sample and data collection, storage, management, and research support. Dedicated, highly trained staff oversee operations to ensure consistency, accuracy, and protection of patient safety and privacy.

All partner hospital sites follow rigorous Standard Operating Procedures developed in accordance with pathologists, privacy experts, and researchers. These procedures align with CTRNet certification requirements and ISBER Best Practices, supporting consistent, high‑quality sample and data handling across OTB.

As a Prescribed Registry under PHIPA, OTB meets the highest standards for data security and privacy. Staff receive regular training and participate in regular audits. All policies and procedures are reviewed annually to support continuous improvement.

Access Fees

OTB is proud to support academic and industry researchers. Our fees are based on market analysis. An estimate of access fees will be provided during the application process.

The access fees for academic researchers are subsidized. This is made possible through OTB’s core funding provided through the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research.

Quotes and Grant Support Letters

Contact us early in your project’s life cycle and contact us often! OTB can provide detailed quotes and/or letters of support for funding applications. Please email tumourbank@oicr.on.ca for further information.

Request Procedure

The application process is designed to be easy and straightforward while maintaining compliance with ethical standards and regulation. Each client is supported by a dedicated Sr. Client Coordinator who provides guidance and assistance at every stage.