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Sample processing
Harmonisation of procedures and criteria for quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) in relation to both pre-analytical and analytical phases are essential to establish a coherent approach to HBM in Europe.
To meet these objectives, the COPHES –WP3 team in charge of sample processing, developed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in order to establish a common framework for the pre-analytical and analytical aspects. Pre-analytical SOPs included instructions and recommendations on sampling (material selection, material pre-treatment) and how to collect the target biological matrices (urine and hair), besides practical aspects like packing of samples, shipment and preservation. For the analytical phase, SOPs were provided with detailed instructions on the analysis of the DEMOCOPHES biomarkers: mercury in hair; cadmium, cotinine, creatinine and phthalates metabolites in urine.
Quality Assurance (QA) criteria were also established and successfully applied.
Further information on validated methods and reference Labs is available for download here