By collecting and analyzing blood samples from Geisinger’s large patient population, MyCode^TM will help unlock the mysteries of some of the most devastating and debilitating diseases.

MyCode researchers use the blood samples to study the genetic causes of diseases and certain disease-related protein mediators.  Knowledge gained from these studies will allow researchers to pursue innovative approaches to disease prevention and treatment strategies. To be of value for Genomic Medicine research, bio-banked samples must be connected to clinical data: MyCode allows genetic information to be accessed in a way that protects patient identity. 

Today, MyCode has more than 12,000 consented participants. The MyCode project collects a large general population sample, which complements Geisinger’s other bio-banking efforts that obtain samples from individuals already diagnosed with common diseases such as obesity, vascular disease, and rheumatologic disorders, among others.

The principal investigator for MyCode is Walter Stewart, PhD, MD, and the project is made possible by funding from the Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority and Geisinger Clinic’s Administrative Committee for Research.

The MyCode Process

When a patient agrees to participate in MyCode, blood samples for the MyCode Project are collected during blood draws ordered as part of the patient’s routine medical care. MyCode blood samples can be taken annually but only when a patient is already having blood drawn for clinical purposes. Download the MyCode brochure (.pdf) for more information.

Participation in the MyCode project is free of charge both to individuals and their insurers. In order to be eligible to donate blood, volunteers must be:

• Under either the primary care or secondary care of a Geisinger physician; and
• At least 18 years of age.

Patients who do not understand the project or have been diagnosed with or exhibit signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease are not eligible to participate.

The volume of the blood sample obtained for MyCode is commonly no more than two tablespoons, in addition to the amount of blood drawn for clinical or diagnostic purposes. 

After the sample is drawn and labeled, a staff member from the Weis Center for Research transports the blood to the Geisinger Clinic Genomics Core (GCGC) where it is processed for frozen storage. At this stage, all personal identification markers are removed and the samples are assigned a randomly-selected identification number or barcode.

A special research number is then assigned to the blood samples and another to the patient’s electronic health record. This allows researchers to connect the sample to the clinical data for genomic studies in a way that ensures confidentiality of the information.

At all times, confidentiality of MyCode data is strictly maintained. The code linking the research numbers and the electronic health record are kept in a password-protected computer accessible only to MyCode management team members. Additionally, all results generated from the samples will be reported as a group so that individuals will not be identified. The samples are stored indefinitely. 

For more information on the MyCode Project or for instructions on how to join the study, call 1-866-910-6486.