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Updated: Aug 5, 2026
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Biobank for Translational Medicine: Standard Operating Procedures for Optimal Sample Management
Published on: November 30, 2022
Developing a national proficiency testing programme for biospecimens: the Thailand Biobank Consortium experience
Piyavat Apisampinvong1,2, Chawanit Wongkasa3, Thanastha Thanomchard3
1Center of Multidisciplinary Technology for Advanced Medicine (CMUTEAM), Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand.
Journal of Clinical Pathology
|July 27, 2026
Summary
A pilot proficiency testing (PT) program for biospecimens in Thailand was developed, showing feasibility and accessibility. This initiative aims to harmonize biospecimen quality across the nation.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Laboratory Science
- Quality Assurance
Background:
- Proficiency testing (PT) is crucial for ensuring biospecimen quality.
- Thailand lacked a nationally accessible PT program for biospecimens.
- Standardized biospecimen handling is essential for research and diagnostics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a pilot PT program for biospecimens in Thailand.
- To assess the feasibility and accessibility of a national PT framework.
- To improve the quality and consistency of biospecimen analysis.
Main Methods:
- A pilot PT program with four schemes: DNA extraction, quantification, purity, and integrity.
- Adherence to ISO/IEC 17043:2023 and ISO 13528:2022 standards.
- Evaluation of participant performance using z- or z'-scores based on consensus values.
Main Results:
- All PT items met homogeneity and stability requirements.
- 30 laboratories participated nationwide, with high delivery success rates.
- DNA extraction showed high variability (CV 78.2–95.3%), while purity and integrity were more consistent (CV 1.3–11.2%).
- Over 75% of participants achieved satisfactory performance (|z or z'| ≤ 2.0).
- Program costs were approximately 12% of international schemes.
Conclusions:
- The pilot PT program demonstrated feasibility and accessibility for biospecimens in Thailand.
- Supports the establishment of a sustainable PT framework for harmonizing biospecimen quality.
- Highlights the need for continued efforts in quality control for biospecimen analysis.
