Submitting Samples to the VMSR

Sample Requirements

The prices provided by the VMSR are based in part on our ability to perform large numbers of assays with a minimum of manual attention. This requires that all samples we receive are appropriately concentrated for the assay to be performed. In order to continue offering these prices, any samples that do not meet the requirements listed below will be subject to a minimum sample handling fee of $5/sample.

Gene Expression (total RNA)
PlatformConcentrationVolume
Affymetrix 3'200-1500 ng/µL11 µL
Affymetrix Gene75-200 ng/µL6 µL
Affymetrix Exon (WT-Pico)6-25 ng/µL8 µL
Agilent100-500 ng/µL8 µL
Exiqon miRNA (tissue)500-1000 ng/µL5 µL
Exiqon miRNA (culture)1000-2000 ng/µL5 µL
NuGEN Amplification6-25 ng/µL8 µL
Genotyping (genomic DNA)
PlatformConcentrationVolume
SNP Mapping50 ng/µL20 µL
Targeted Genotyping (≤ 5K)*150 ng/µL17 µL
Targeted Genotyping (> 5K)*150 ng/µL30 µL
Resequencing5 ng/µL25 µL
*Targeted Genotyping samples should be diluted in 1x TE

1. Prepare Your Samples

Be sure to follow the suggestions on the sample prep page when isolating. In particular, be sure that you dilute in nuclease-free water (expression samples may be diluted in the column elution buffer, eg 10mM Tris). Small numbers of samples should be in 1.5ml Eppendorf tubes. If you have more than about 20 samples, you may instead use a 96-well PCR plate. Genotyping projects should leave wells G12 and H12 empty so that we can add positive and negative controls. The plate should be sealed well with foil (Beckman, Biomek Seal & Sample, #538619).

2. Submit Your Samples Online

Log into the VMSR Project database, and select the appropriate project. Click the "Submit New Samples" button and follow the instructions on-screen (for more information, see the User's Manual).

3. Label and Drop Off

You will receive a confirmation email after submitting your samples. Print out the attached form, and use it to label your samples. The top of each Eppendorf tube should be labeled with the VMSR sample ID (eg 228-SEL-1). Each plate should be labeled with the project number, sample numbers, and date. Bring the printed submission form and your samples to the VMSR during normal business hours. Investigators outside Vanderbilt need to follow the instructions on the Shipping Samples page.