Virtual global biorepository: access for all to speed-up result-oriented research

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Research
• Health Informatics
• Biobanking

Background:

• Biorepositories and biobanks have been utilized for over a century for collecting, storing, and distributing human biological materials.
• Existing biorepositories for diseases like cancer and diabetes are predominantly located in developed nations.
• The interchangeable use of 'biobank' and 'biorepository' highlights their established role in research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the geographical limitations of current biorepositories.
• To propose the concept and necessity of a universally accessible virtual global repository for biological specimens.
• To emphasize the importance of virtual biobanks for advancing global health research.

Main Methods:

• Conceptualization of a virtual biobank as an electronic database independent of physical specimen location.
• Defining virtual biorepositories as potential consortia of national or international repositories.
• Highlighting the integration of biological specimens with related data.

Main Results:

• The establishment of specialized biorepositories for various diseases exists but is geographically concentrated.
• The need for a universally accessible virtual global repository is identified.
• Virtual biorepositories can provide global access to source material and data.

Conclusions:

• Virtual biobanks are essential for democratizing access to biospecimens and data for global health research.
• Consortia of virtual biorepositories can overcome geographical barriers and accelerate research outcomes.
• The development of a virtual global repository is crucial for equitable and effective health research worldwide.