The PK Dept. processes and ships all samples for the Phase I and II trials conducted at START. Simple processing of the samples includes centrifugation followed by the transfer of plasma or serum and then freezing. Complex processing, such as harvesting peripheral blood mononuclear cells using specialized tubes, and washing and storage media, is also routinely performed in the laboratory.

The PK Dept. also handles skin and tumor biopsies required by clinical trial protocols. A member of the PK Dept. is present during biopsy procedures in order to immediately process and provide sponsors with the best possible sample.

The laboratory has up to date equipment to include swing bucket centrifuges that can spin up to 3,000 g as well as a micro centrifuge that can spin up to 16,000 g. The centrifuges have room temperature capabilities as well as cold temperature capabilities (0-4°C). Yearly maintenance and calibrations are conducted on the equipment in order to maintain accurate speeds and temperatures. The lab is also equipped with 2 freezers (one -80°C and one -20°C) and a refrigerator / freezer which are monitored 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by the Central Monitoring System II.

Shipment of the samples is also coordinated through the PK Dept., which can accommodate daily, weekly, or monthly shipments.

The laboratory manager is an ASCP certified Medical Technologist. Laboratory personnel are certified via the Saf T Pak training course, and are very familiar with the requirements of the 49CFR and DGR in regards to handling and shipping hazardous materials.