University of Minnesota researchers launch a new website commemorating Zach Sobiech and his legacy. The project brings patients with osteosarcoma together in one online location. Found at osteosarcoma.umn.edu, the site is known as Biology of Osteosarcoma (BOOST) Registry and Biobank. The power of the project comes from the ability to bring people with a rare condition from anywhere in the world together to help better understand this disease.

BOOST participants will fill out an online survey, then receive a DNA collection kit through the mail. Patients diagnosed at any age and their families are invited to enroll. Researchers will use the samples to understand why osteosarcoma occurs and how genetics influence response to treatment.

The goal for BOOST’s first year is to enroll 500 patients and their families to expand the basis of knowledge on this disease.