We rely on science, but science relies on you. 

How often do you think about how the tablets, medicines, and lotions you take to help with everyday conditions and ailments, have been created? Does it ever cross your mind the amount of research and time that go into their development? How often do you consider whether or not you could play a vital role in the process of identifying and developing new drugs that could help thousands – even millions – of people around the world?

Not very often? How about thinking about it now? Because just as you rely on science, science relies on you! 

Here at Tissue Solutions, we’re building our database of donor volunteers who are happy to share their fuss-free samples with us. Samples which enable us to further support scientists across the world by providing the very best, ethically sourced human tissue samples, which aid vital research and drug development. 

Once signed up to our donor register, when we call on a donor is entirely dependent upon what scientists need – and when they need it. When a request comes in, we reach out to registered donors to see if they are free to get involved and share a small sample for science.

Scientists tend to request six core sample types from us: blood, skin, saliva, tears, urine and faeces. 

Still not sure? Donating a sample is an incredibly quick, easy, and confidential process but to totally reassure you, we’ve outlined some useful information below which explains what’s involved.

The Process

1. Firstly, if you’re donating a sample that can’t be taken in the comfort of your own home (such as saliva), you’ll be invited to our Tissue Solutions HQ in Glasgow. You’ll be given an information sheet which outlines what your sample will be used for and will be asked to sign a consent form to ensure that you’re happy with the process. If you can donate from home, a member of our team will liaise with you on suitable timings and you’ll receive information about what to do, through the post along with the required kit to store your sample in! 

2. If not taking the sample yourself, a trained specialist will do so, and this usually takes no more than 20 minutes. There’s absolutely no obligation to give your sample, so don’t worry if you change your mind at any point.

3. Your sample is then packaged up and stored at the required temperature – and it remains completely anonymous! Pick up is typically coordinated (either from the clinic or your home) using our specialist courier service to ensure it reaches our client as quickly and as freshly as possible!

Your wee act of generosity goes a heck of a long way… 

Did you know that one skin sample can fuel the development of drugs against eczema, psoriasis, and hives? Or that a single urine sample can support research into earlier detection of certain cancers such as prostate and bladder cancer? 

It really is as simple as that, so if you fancy joining our database and helping to further vital research and drug development using the very best, ethically sourced samples, you can do so here. 

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Donors receive a small remuneration fee to cover their inconvenience.