By providing individuals with information set out in Article 10.2 about the uses of their tissue, potential subjects will be empowered to decide if their concerns about privacy and confidentiality are met. When identification is possible, researchers shall seek to obtain free and informed consent from individuals, or from their authorized third parties, for the use of their previously collected tissue. The provisions of article 10.2 also apply here. Article 10.3 applies the general principles of research involving identifying data of Section 2 to the specific case of tissue. The article, which should be read in conjunction with Articles 10.1 and 10.2, applies broadly to research in areas such as health sciences, anthropology and genetics.
Identification is a matter of sensitivity for individuals, families and members of groups.
Though it may not be possible to identify the individuals who provided the tissue, other ethical issues may warrant scrutiny. Some individuals may not want their tissue used for any research purposes regardless of anonymity. The interests of biological relatives or members of distinct cultural groups or other communities may be adversely affected through research uses of their anonymous tissue.