Biological material
Biological material is matter obtained from living organisms, including cells, tissues, fluids, and biological molecules, for study or use.
Cell: The basic structural and functional unit of living organisms, bounded by a membrane and containing cellular machinery. Cells are the smallest intact units commonly collected and studied as biological material.
Biobank: An organized repository that collects, processes, stores, and distributes biological specimens and associated data. Biobanks preserve specimens for research and make their handling traceable.
Aseptic technique: Practices that prevent contamination by unwanted microorganisms during handling or procedures. Aseptic handling protects specimens and cultures from contaminating organisms.
Informed consent: Voluntary agreement to a procedure or use after receiving relevant information about its purpose, risks, and alternatives. Consent governs many collections and secondary uses of human specimens.
Tissue: An organized group of cells and extracellular components that performs a shared function. Tissues preserve organized relationships among cells that isolated specimens lack.
Biological specimen: A sample of biological material collected for examination, testing, or research. This is the specimen-level term for material prepared and handled for analysis.
Cryopreservation: The preservation of cells or tissues at very low temperatures to limit damage over time. Freezing can retain viable cells for later analysis or use.
Human tissue authority: A United Kingdom regulator overseeing the removal, storage, and use of human tissue for specified purposes. Its framework illustrates how law regulates human material beyond the point of collection.
Blood: A circulating connective tissue composed of plasma, blood cells, and platelets. Blood is a widely collected specimen containing cells, proteins, and other measurable substances.
Cell culture: The growth of cells under controlled conditions outside an organism. Culturing allows collected cells to be maintained and studied beyond their original source.