Biological sample storage in biomedical research

Abstract

Despite the central role of biological samples in biomedical discovery, many research laboratories operate without robust sample storage systems. This compromises sample integrity, reproducibility, biosafety, and the long-term utility of the data. Implementing structured sample storage policies and infrastructure is crucial for maintaining scientific quality, ensuring regulatory compliance, and promoting responsible research conduct. It would be highly beneficial for any research laboratory to transition from sample storage to the implementation of a formal biobank. Biobanks constitute a critical infrastructure for biomedical research, as they systematically store biological specimens and databases, which are essential for maximizing utility in clinical investigations and facilitating international collaborative efforts. Most countries lack biobank-specific regulatory frameworks, which limits the ability to implement concurrent initiatives in line with international standards. Integrating quality management systems is essential for ensuring specimen quality and security. In this study, we analyzed the importance of the sample storage conditions and the steps required to transition to a formal biobank. We proposed a guide for doing so in the absence of a regulatory framework, based on the ISO 20387:2018 model, and included an example of successful implementation. We integrated environmental sustainability considerations and inter-institutional networking as a strategy for enhancing operational efficiency. Transforming an internal sample storage system into a formal biobank is a strategic and scientific advancement. It ensures that biological materials are managed with the rigor, transparency, and ethical responsibility required by contemporary biomedical research. By doing so, research institutions strengthen their capacity for innovation and collaboration.

Keywords: Biobank; ISO 20387:2018; Laboratory sustainability; Sample storage.