What is biobanking?
What is biobanking?
The short answer is "Yes." The biobank is a repository for biological samples that have been properly preserved and can be used to support future scientific research.
However, biobanking has a far more complex explanation in the scientific research arena.
Time magazine in 2009 listed Biobanking among the "10 Best Ideas"
Changing the World Right Now". They highlighted how biobanks can elevate the world.
Potential of the information scientists could get from biological samples, and what this might mean
It will be used for future research.
Biobanks are now an integral part of scientific advancement in the era when science is moving at a rapid pace.
emerging methodologies and scientific breakthroughs. What we now understand is that
Biobanking does more than just store biological samples.
Preservation of biological data is possible through proper logistical management, legislation.
Biobanks can be used as large-scale, long-term storage libraries for biological information.
These can be accessed to answer scientific queries on command.
Biobanking is possible only if you have the right ingredients
The Mayo Clinic, which is located in Minnesota, was one of the first to adopt the biobank concept.
He currently manages one among the largest biobanks of patient samples in the United States.
Recent research by their team defined the requirements.
The success of biobanking operations. We will discuss these issues in detail here.
brief:
1.Biobank Planning
Eleanor Roosevelt said it well: "Those that fail to plan, will fail."
A plan is essential for biobank collection
The plan must be clearly defined and include specific goals and objectives.
It is possible to achieve these goals with samples stored. You will need to follow the protocol for sample storage.
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 are created
Standard Operating Procedures are the cornerstone of scientific outputs of high quality.
For scientific accuracy, consistent, repeatable, reliable, accurate results, SOPs can be used
Research is required.
The technicians should control sample variability before samples can be sent to the biobank
and researchers responsible for sample collection and processing. Once the samples are received at the
biobank, which offers a variety of methods to monitor environmental conditions.
You can limit variability during preservation phase.
These procedures also include handling of specimens.
Processing and receiving procedures. The implementation of a suitable
Record management system, equipment maintenance and monitoring, as well as facility security, will all be available at rest
These procedures can be established by the biobank.
3. Biobank staff training
Staff must have the ability to identify and report on any potential problems with samples that are being used for biobanking.
You should have a thorough understanding and training in internal procedures.
Competent to fulfill their duties.
Particularly important for biobanks that handle specimens is staff competency and training
are taken from different sampling locations. The Mayo Clinic review also includes further information.
We recommend that you identify a "supertrainer", a member the permanent staff complement.
responsible for training new staff. to ensure uniform training methods for delivery
consistency over a long period of time, since staff turnover is unavoidable.
4. Laboratory Information Management Systems
The biobank can't guarantee the integrity of the samples once they are stored.
Further, sample integrity is dependent on the day-today activities of the biobank. These activities are strongly dependent on a reliable Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) for sample tracking, traceability and accountability
A LIMS (appropriate Laboratory Information Management System) is a software package that allows you to track and manage laboratory samples as well as the associated data. Any details pertaining to the type, source, collection, collection methods, transportation, processing, preservation (if applicable), and storage of each sample 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. After-collection processing
In order to ensure long-term storage, depending on the nature of biological samples, processing after collection may be required.
The post-collection process should be clearly defined in the SOPs. This should be included within the LIMS in order to preserve the integrity of each specimen.
6. Disaster preparedness
Many samples stored in biobanks are irreplaceable and of scientific value.
Therefore, biobanks should account for potential disasters that might threaten the integrity of the samples being preserved. The biobank's location and the environment could pose potential dangers such as fires, flooding, and security breaches.
Not only should a biobank have an early detection system but it is also recommended that a designated emergency management team be assigned to help with risk assessments and the preparation of a contingency plan should disaster strike.
South Africa's Biobanking: Unusual challenges and opportunities
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 incidence of diseases requires specialized research and development in order for developing countries with logistical and resource limitations to be able to benefit from it.
South Africa's most serious threat to productivity is its limited energy resources. Since 2007, SA has faced rolling, scheduled power outages due to a combination of ageing infrastructure, a dramatic increase in consumer demand and limited coal supplies. Although the future of SA's energy includes capacity-building plans and renewable energy, there is currently no end in sight to unavoidable power shortages.
The ability to store samples at specified temperatures is crucial. Therefore, it is important that biorepositories within SA be mindful of the energy requirements. For sustained operation, any SA-based biorepository that is reputable will need backup generators as well as stable energy storage devices.
Biobanking is a great option for your samples
Biobanking is a great service, but it can be hard to believe that biobanking is something that only large academic and research institutions have access to.
Be confident!