Current practices for access, compensation, and prioritization in biobanks. Results from an interview study

Area of Science:

• Biomedical research
• Biobanking
• Governance

Background:

• Human biological materials and data in biobanks are vital for research.
• Effective governance for access, compensation, and prioritization is needed but challenging.
• Debates highlight practical difficulties in applying governance processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess biobank experts' practical experiences and attitudes.
• Focus on governance of biosample access, prioritization, and compensation.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative, semi-structured telephone interviews.
• Conducted with 20 biobank directors from eight countries.

Main Results:

• Biobank directors emphasized the need for sound governance structures for stakeholder acceptance.
• Practical difficulties exist in optimizing biomaterial utilization.
• Conflicting interests among researchers, clinicians, patients, funders, and staff impact access decisions.
• Adequate compensation for investments (intellectual, financial, human resources) is necessary.
• Biobanks serve dual roles: stewarding samples and providing services.

Conclusions:

• Greater harmonization of minimum standards for biobank access and compensation is required nationally and internationally.
• This harmonization is essential for the efficient use of human biological materials.