[Next generation tissue biobanking: quality assured, financed, and integrated?]

Abstract

Biobanks are essential for biomedical research, particularly in the era of personalized medicine. In Germany, 36 biobanks have been established over the past decade that are connected under the German Biobank Alliance (GBA). These biobanks store high-quality biological samples along with clinical data to support research projects. Biobanks can be integrated, handling both tissue and liquid samples, or set up as separate entities depending on specific requirements.Tissue biobanking is especially complex due to the invasive nature of tissue collection and the non-replicability of the samples. Close collaboration between clinics, pathologists, IT specialists, and biobank managers is crucial to ensure the quality of samples and promote interdisciplinary research.The integration of pathology and biobanking is key, both organizationally and technically. Shared IT systems, standardized protocols, and collaborative governance structures are vital for efficient data management. Quality assurance, ethical guidelines, and data protection are critical to maintaining public trust and legal compliance.Long-term financial models are needed to ensure the sustainability of biobanks. The GBA supports emerging biobanks through its "Starterkit" initiative, offering guidance and best practices to help new biobanks develop.Tissue biobanks are indispensable for advancing the understanding of diseases and developing new therapies. However, they must adhere to strict ethical and legal standards to maximize their scientific and societal value.

Keywords: Biobanking; Biomedical research; Integrated Biobanking; Pathology; Tissue biobanking.