MPN Research Consortium (MPN-RC) Tissue Bank
– advancing research
MPN-RC Tissue Bank: A catalyst for discovery
The MPN Research Foundation (MPNRF) has championed the Myeloproliferative Neoplasm Research Consortium (MPN-RC) since its inception. The MPN-RC is a collaborative network of research investigators from 17 institutions developing better treatments for myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). Among its many vital roles is developing resources and platforms to accelerate MPN research. An important part of the MPN-RC is the Tissue Bank, one of the world’s largest repositories of MPN patient blood and bone marrow specimens.
Since 2007, the Tissue Bank has grown into a world-class resource, now led by Dr. Bridget Marcellino. In December 2023, MPNRF reinforced its commitment with five years of funding, ensuring continued expansion, collaboration, and accessibility for researchers worldwide.
The MPN-RC Tissue Bank, housed at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, contains nearly 2000 patient blood and bone marrow samples, providing essential resources for MPN research. These specimens, primarily from MPN-RC clinical trial participants, help scientists study biomarkers, disease progression, and treatment effects at a molecular level.
Why it matters
Laboratory models can’t fully capture MPN complexity—real patient samples are crucial. The Tissue Bank’s longitudinal collection allows researchers to track disease evolution and analyze:
- Diagnosis & treatment history
- Blood counts & bone marrow biopsies
- Molecular mutations & therapeutic responses
More than just a collection of samples, the MPN-RC Tissue Bank fuels innovation in MPN research. By preserving and sharing patient specimens, it enables scientists worldwide to develop better diagnostics, improved treatments, and ultimately, a cure for MPNs—advancing the MPN Research Foundation’s mission.
Whether you are a scientist seeking resources or a patient looking to contribute, the MPN-RC Tissue Bank offers an opportunity to drive meaningful progress in the fight against MPNs.
Meet the MPN-RC Tissue Bank team
Researchers
Scientists interested in access to MPN patient samples can submit a proposal to the MPN-RC Tissue Bank review committee. Each request is evaluated based on scientific merit, feasibility, and alignment with the Tissue Bank’s mission. Approved projects receive carefully selected specimens to support their research objectives.
Patients
Patients are essential partners in advancing MPN research. The Tissue Bank is continuously working to expand opportunities for patient participation. If you are interested in learning more about specimen donation, contact the MPN-RC for the most up-to-date information on patient contributions.
Driving Breakthroughs
With a diverse, clinically annotated sample inventory, the MPN-RC Tissue Bank supports discoveries in:
- Predicting disease progression
- Testing new therapies on patient cells
- Understanding molecular treatment responses
