What are the services of the NCGS?
A4. The NCGS creates high-quality DNA, plasma, and cryopreserved lymphocytes (CPLs) on all samples submitted by NGC members. If samples do not have sufficient lymphocytes for cryopreservation, the sample will be made into an Epstein-Barr virus transformed cell line (from which DNA is extracted and stored). If DNA quantities become low, the CPLs are thawed and transformed into cell lines. The NCGS also provides a mechanism by which all databases containing clinical information and biomaterials (DNA) can be widely searched or distributed to qualified investigators in the scientific community. The services of the NCGS for shipping blood, producing cell lines, and storing clinical data are free to members of the NGC. Requests to access stored DNA samples (at 10 µg aliquots) may require a nominal fee depending on NGC membership status and the number of prior requests. Please refer to the fee structure below.
