Preoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT) is the cornerstone of treatment for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC). Although high local control is achieved, overall rates of distant control remain suboptimal. Colorectal carcinogenesis is associated with critical alterations of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway involved in proliferation and survival. The aim of this study was to assess whether CRT induces changes in the expression of β-catenin/E-cadherin, and to determine whether these changes are associated with survival.

The mission of the Andalusian Public Health System Biobank is to offer the best options for biological samples of human origin and associated clinical information, protecting the rights of citizens who donate their samples for research. Since the Andalusian Biobank provides high-quality biological samples of all types in a specified format, adapting the preanalytical phase according to the requirements of the research, prospective collection and distribution of samples are being prioritized in order to contribute to the sustainability of the Biobank. The Andalusian Registry of Donors for Biomedical Research is a tool for the recruitment of donors and the prospective collection of samples. Its operation is based on the informed consent of donors for their incorporation into the Registry and contact with possible donors under request from specific projects. An additional advantage of this unique initiative is to ensure that societal actors work together throughout the entire research process, establishing alliances with patient associations and groups to develop joint actions and promote biomedical research. Here, we describe the creation, ethical–legal aspects, management and results of the Andalusian Registry of Donors for Biomedical Research after five years of operation.