We have developed rapid research autopsies to explore the immune system in tissues (see D. L. Farber Nature 593, 506–509; 2021). This model is well suited to investigating COVID-19 — caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus invading multiple tissues — as well as other diseases.
To study where HIV, for example, hides in the body, we conducted autopsies on people with HIV who had consented to whole-body donation. Autopsies took place within 6 hours of death to allow optimal preservation of more than 60 tissue types for flash-freezing, RNA stabilization, histology and single-cell suspension.
Support for the research from the community and participants’ next of kin is essential. Speed is ensured by pre-labelling of sample containers and systematic deployment of supplies and reagents, and by close collaboration with the health-care facilities where participants expire. We have performed 15 such autopsies over the past 3.5 years, and have enrolled 12 people for future autopsy.
To realize the value of participants’ donations, we have distributed important biological specimens to a dozen collaborators. We would be happy to share our experiences with researchers and institutions interested in implementing such programmes.