VA Genetic Tissue Banking

Intervention: No intervention.

Primary Hypothesis: It is feasible and cost-effective to create a CSP-wide facility for banking genetic tissue in CSP studies.

Study Abstract: This is a program-wide genetic tissue databank for the Department of Veterans Affairs Cooperative Studies Program (CSP). The study has five components: a central repository for DNA and other genetic tissue specimens; a Scientific Advisory Committee of individuals with expertise in the genetics and epidemiology of diseases with special importance to the VA (including cardiovascular, neurologic, respiratory, psychological and other disorders); an Ethical Oversight Committee of individuals with expertise in bioethics and the law, as they apply to the collection and use of genetic tissue, A Veteran's Advisory Group, and a Coordinating Center administers the tissue bank, coordinates the three oversight committees, maintains central access to clinical study data linked to the tissue bank, and provides statistical analysis.

This DNA Banking substudy piggybacks on VA Cooperative Studies Clinical Trials. All participants who are randomized to selected CSP clinical trials are eligible to participate in the Banking Initiative.