Integrated biobanks facilitate high-quality collection and analysis of liquid biomaterials

Abstract The collection and storage of biomaterials is essential for medical research. The aim of biobanking is the safe extension of the preanalytical phase. However, not all quality aspects are clearly defined nor accepted by the whole biobanking community. Samples for large or complex trials have to be collected and stored according to well-defined, rapid and reliable processes. In a comparable manner, also the post-storage phase needs well-defined, rapid and reliable processes which have to be implemented in order to guarantee high-quality samples as an inevitable basis for accurate analytical results. The time span between the sample removal from the biobank and analysis seems not to be in the focus of a biobank especially when it is run independently of a laboratory. Sample analysis represents the core responsibility of laboratories. But the quality of samples can be impaired by all process steps in the preanalytical phase, including preparation for analysis after the freezing period. Biobanks may contribute to high-quality standards in the retrieval and handling of samples before storage. They can offer electronic tools for data entry in parallel to sampling allowing a tight control and documentation of the preanalytical phase directly in the laboratory information system. In case of a biobank independent of the laboratory, which performs the measurements, the biobank’s responsibility ends with the transport. A closer link between the two institutions, however, could significantly improve sample quality and laboratory results. Integrated biobanking combines long-term sample storage with optimized laboratory processes, thus facilitating high-quality analytical results.