Frozen Zoo Biobank Resource Core

Comparative Biology Resources from 50+ Mammalian Species

The Frozen Zoo Biobank Resource Core provides researchers with unprecedented access to biological samples from over 50 mammalian species with diverse maximum lifespans. Our comprehensive biobank enables comparative biology studies that would be impossible with traditional laboratory models alone.

Explore Other Cores

Live Animal Resource Invertebrate Core Comparative Omics

Core Members

Available Resources

Frozen Tissue Samples

Available from 50+ mammalian species including:

  • Species with various life span
  • Cancer-resistant species

Tissue types: Brain, liver, kidney, heart, muscle, skin, and others

Primary Fibroblast Cell Lines

Characterized cell lines from diverse species:

  • Standardized culture conditions
  • Validated for aging research
  • Multiple passage numbers available
  • Quality control testing performed

Applications: Cellular senescence, DNA damage response, metabolic studies

Proteome Datasets

Comprehensive protein expression data:

  • Species-specific protein databases
  • Age-related protein changes
  • Tissue-specific proteomes
  • Comparative analysis tools

Data formats: Raw mass spectrometry data, processed datasets, analysis scripts

Core Services

Study Design Support

  • Comparative biology study design
  • Statistical analysis planning
  • Phylogenetic correction methods
  • Species selection guidance

Sample Provision

  • Frozen tissue samples
  • Primary cell lines
  • Custom sample preparation
  • Quality-controlled materials

Data Resources

  • Proteome databases
  • Comparative analysis tools
  • Species metadata
  • Bioinformatics support

Technical Support

  • Protocol optimization
  • Method development
  • Training workshops
  • Consultation services

Sample Request Process

Step 1: Browse Catalog

Review our online catalog to identify species and sample types that match your research needs. Contact us for detailed availability information.

Step 2: Submit Request

Complete our sample request form with details about your research project, required samples, and intended analyses.

Step 3: Review & Approval

Requests are reviewed for scientific merit and sample availability. We may suggest alternative species or approaches to optimize your study.

Step 4: Sample Shipment

Approved samples are prepared and shipped with detailed protocols and metadata. We provide ongoing support for sample handling and analysis.

Quality Control & Standards

Sample Quality

  • Standardized collection protocols
  • Controlled storage conditions (-80°C or liquid nitrogen)
  • Regular quality assessments
  • Chain of custody documentation

Data Standards

  • Standardized metadata collection
  • FAIR data principles compliance
  • Regular database updates
  • Cross-platform compatibility

Contact Information

Get Started

For sample requests:
Vera Gorbunova, Ph.D. (vera.gorbunova@rochester.edu)

For data access:
Contact us for database credentials and analysis tools

For collaboration opportunities:
We welcome partnerships for new species collection and data generation