MammaPrint Sampling Instructions

MammaPrint can be performed on a core needle biopsy or tissue taken from a surgical specimen (lumpectomy or mastectomy) of the primary tumor.  For optimal RNA integrity, MammaPrint utilizes RNARetain, a room temperature, molecular fixative which is provided in the MammaPrint Specimen Collection and Transportation kits. Frozen tissue is not required.

MammaPrint Tissue Collection from a Surgical Specimen

1. Make arrangements to obtain MammaPrint tumor sample immediately after surgery (within one hour of procedure).
2. A representative tissue sample (containing sufficient tumor cells) should be taken from the tumor. The sample can be obtained using a scalpel, or the optional 3mm punch biopsy tool that is provided in the MammaPrint shipping kit.
   a. Using a scalpel, the tissue sample should be at least 3mm³ (height, width, length) and at least one side of the biopsy should not exceed 5mm to allow penetration of the RNARetain fixative.
   b. If using the optional punch tool provided in the kit, the tissue sample will be 3mm in diameter and should be at least 3-5mm in length.
3. Immediately place the tumor samples into the RNARetain vial provided in the MammaPrint shipping kit and follow shipping instructions for submission to Agendia for testing.

MammaPrint Tissue Collection by Core Needle Biopsy

1. MammaPrint is validated on core needle biopsies and can be submitted using 14 gauge or larger needles.
2. Please provide two core tumor samples for 14 gauge needles, or one core for 8 gauge needles to ensure sufficient  tumor cells are obtained.
3. Image guidance is highly recommended as it greatly improves tumor yield.
4. Upon removal, immediately place the tissue samples in the RNARetain vial provided in the MammaPrint shipping kit and follow shipping instructions for submission to Agendia for testing.

Additional Note:

1. For ideal testing material, the tissue sample should include as much tumor as possible.  Tumor size permitting, please submit two samples of the tumor.
2. It is important to obtain the fresh, unfixed tissue sample within 60 minutes of surgical removal and place the samples in the RNARetain molecular fixative to ensure the highest RNA integrity.
3. Once within RNARetain, the sample is stable at room temperature for 7 days.