What is biobanking?
What is biobanking and how can it help you?
The short answer is "Yes." A biobank is a repository of appropriately preserved biological samples forthe purpose of future scientific research.
However, biobanking goes far beyond the realm of scientific research.
Back in 2009, Time magazine listed the concept of Biobanking as one of the "10 Ideas
Changing the World Right Now". They shined a spotlight on biobanks' potential to elevate the
Potential information scientists could derive from biological samples.
This is what it means for future research.
Biobanks have been instrumental in scientific progress in this age of rapid technological change.
Emerging methodologies and scientific breakthroughs. What we now understand is that
Biobanking is more than a way to store biological samples. It's a critical tool for the future.
Preservation of biological data is possible through proper logistical management, legislation.
Biobanks act as long-term, large storage libraries of biological data that can be accessed on a large scale.
These can be accessed to answer scientific queries on command.
Biobanking is possible only if you have the right ingredients
The Mayo Clinic, located in the state of Minnesota, was an early adopter of the biobank concept
Currently, he manages one the largest biobanks in America for patient samples.
Their researchers published an informative review recently that defined the requirements.
the successful operations involved in biobanking. We will discuss these issues in detail here.
brief:
1.Planning for Biobank
Eleanor Roosevelt wisely stated: "Those who fail plan, plan for failure."
A plan is essential for biobank collection
This plan will need a clearly defined set goals and objectives for the researchers to achieve.
You can achieve this by storing the samples. There will be specific protocols for handling the samples.
collection and processing. Storage requirements regarding storage size and conditions.
need to be defined, as well as the long-term monitoring requirements of the specific biobank.
2. Standard Operating Procedures created
Standard Operating Procedures are fundamental to high-quality scientific outputs.
For scientific accuracy, consistent, repeatable, reliable, accurate results, SOPs can be used
research requires.
The technicians should control sample variability before samples can be sent to the biobank
The sample collection and processing is performed by researchers. Once the samples have reached the
biobank - A variety of different procedures are in place to manage environmental conditions
To limit variability during the preservation phase.
These procedures include, but are not limited too, the handling of specimens and include
processing and receiving methods. In addition, it is necessary to implement the appropriate
record management system, equipment maintenance, monitoring and facility security will all rest
These procedures can be established by the biobank.
3. Biobank staff training
For the best integrity of biobanking samples, it is important that staff have the right qualifications.
You should have a thorough understanding and training in internal procedures.
Competent to perform their duties.
Biobank staff training and competency are particularly important in biobanks where specimens
are brought in from various sampling locations. Further, the Mayo Clinic review authors.
recommend identifying a "super-trainer" - a member of the permanent staff complement
Training new staff is the responsibility of this department. to ensure uniform training methods for delivery
Staff turnover makes it impossible to maintain consistency over a long period.
4. Laboratory Information Management Systems
Once samples have been stored, maintaining integrity in the biobank cannot be completed.
Sample integrity further relies on the ongoing, day-to-day activities of the biobank. These activities are strongly dependent on a reliable Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) for sample tracking, traceability and accountability
An appropriate LIMS is a software suite that allows the management and tracking of laboratory samples and the data associated with them. All details regarding the type, origin, collection, methods, transportation, storage, preservation (if necessary), and storage of each specimen should be documented.
Based on the requirements of each biobank, LIMS may be integrated with specialised instrumentation or workflows to reduce the risk of human error that could compromise integrity of samples.
5. Processing after-collection
Depending on the nature of the biological samples, post-collection processing may be required in preparation for long-term storage.
Pre-collection processing should always be clearly documented in pre-established SOPs. It should also be included in the LIMS to maintain the integrity of each sample.
6. Disaster preparedness
A biobank contains samples that are scientifically valuable and irreplaceable.
Biobanks should be prepared for possible disasters that may threaten the integrity or preservation of samples. The biobank's location and the environment could pose potential dangers such as fires, flooding, and security breaches.
A biobank should have an emergency detection system. It is also recommended that a designated disaster management team be established to prepare risk assessments, and a custom-made contingency planning in the event of a natural disaster.
Biobanking in South Africa: unique challenges and prospects
South Africa, which has a population of around 60 million, has one among the highest rates in communicable diseases, including HIV, Tuberculosis (and a growing list metabolic disease syndromes).
This high level of disease burden calls for a unique focus in research and development in order to benefit a country with particular resource and logistical constraints.
The limitations of South Africa’s energy resources is one of the biggest threats to productivity. Due to an aging infrastructure, increased consumer demand, and limited coal supplies, SA has experienced rolling, scheduled power outages since 2007. While capacity-building plans are important for the future of SA's power, as well as renewable energy, it is still possible to experience unavoidable power shortages.
Since effectively maintaining specified temperatures in sample storage is crucial, special considerations must be given to biorepositories in SA regarding their energy supply. A reputable SA-based biorepository will require backup generators and stable energy storage devices to ensure sustained operations.
Consider biobanking to store your samples.
With all the potential benefits of biobanking, it may seem like a service exclusively reserved for large research and academic institutions.
Be confident!