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Biasetti P, Mercugliano E, Schrade L, Spiriti MM, Göritz F, Holtze S, Seet S, Galli C, Stejskal J, Colleoni S, Čižmár D, Simone R, Hildebrandt TB, de Mori B. Ethical assessment of genome resource banking (GRB) in wildlife conservation. Cryobiology 2024; 117:104956. [PMID: 39181526 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2024.104956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2024] [Revised: 07/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Genome Resources Banks (GRBs) represent vital repositories for the systematic collection, storage, and management of genetic material across various taxa, with a primary objective of safeguarding genetic diversity for research and practical applications. Alongside the development of assisted reproductive techniques (ART), GRBs have evolved into indispensable tools in conservation, offering opportunities for species preservation, mitigating inbreeding risks, and facilitating genetic management across fragmented populations. By preserving genetic information in a suspended state, GRBs serve as backups against population vulnerabilities, potentially aiding in the restoration of endangered species and extending their genetic lifespan. While evidence demonstrates the efficacy of GRBs, ethical considerations surrounding biobanking procedures for wildlife conservation remain largely unexplored. In this article, we will discuss possible ethical issues related to GRBs and the need to ethically monitor biobanking procedures in wildlife conservation. We will then propose a methodological tool, ETHAS, already in use for the ethical self-assessment of assisted reproduction techniques, to assess also biobanking procedures. ETHAS can make it possible to monitor a GRB from its design phase to its actual operation, helping to build biobanking procedures that meet high ethical standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierfrancesco Biasetti
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany; Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, Padua University, Padua, Italy.
| | - Elena Mercugliano
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, Padua University, Padua, Italy; Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, Padua University, Padua, Italy
| | - Lisa Schrade
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria Michela Spiriti
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, Padua University, Padua, Italy
| | - Frank Göritz
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Holtze
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Steven Seet
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Daniel Čižmár
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Raffaella Simone
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Barbara de Mori
- Ethics Laboratory for Veterinary Medicine, Conservation and Animal Welfare, Padua University, Padua, Italy; Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, Padua University, Padua, Italy.
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Spielau C, Bunzel C, Abert S, Baldauf H, Schmidt AH, Schetelig J. The Collaborative Biobank (CoBi): Donor and recipient samples & data to facilitate future research on hematopoietic cell transplantation. Best Pract Res Clin Haematol 2024; 37:101551. [PMID: 39098795 DOI: 10.1016/j.beha.2024.101551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
Biobanking provides benefit for future generations by facilitating medical research and subsequent translation and application of research findings. Long-term storage and research involving biological material and associated data necessitate the proper implementation of ethical and legal standards. A key principle includes recognizing informed consent as a crucial element for legitimizing the collection of biological material and data. Furthermore, any collected material and data must be employed exclusively for the research framework that aligns with the explicit consent provided by the participants. Last but not least, data privacy and security are essential in biobanking. This review elucidates chances and limitations of biobanking in the field of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. We discuss the practical implementation of the requirements, illustrated by the Collaborative Biobank, a collaborative research platform for research in blood cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Stefan Abert
- DKMS Group gGmbH, Clinical Trials Unit, Dresden, Germany
| | | | - Alexander H Schmidt
- DKMS Group gGmbH, Clinical Trials Unit, Dresden, Germany; DKMS Group gGmbH, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Johannes Schetelig
- DKMS Group gGmbH, Clinical Trials Unit, Dresden, Germany; University Hospital Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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3
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de Melo-Martín I, Ortega-Paíno E. Biobanking Legislation in Spain: Advancing or Undermining Its Ethical Values? Biopreserv Biobank 2024; 22:242-247. [PMID: 38237124 PMCID: PMC11301700 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2023.0107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Biobanks are important resources for improving public health and individual care. Some legal frameworks can be more or less conducive to advancing the potential benefits of biobanks. The purpose of this article is to assess biobanking legislation and practices in Spain to determine how well they fare in such a regard. We focus here on some of the primary ethical values that ground relevant legislation and that we believe are consistent with promoting biobanking benefits: the value of scientific research; efficient use of scarce resources; and respect for the dignity of donors. We argue that although Spanish regulations advance these values in important ways, they also have provisions that undermine them and thus risk limiting the potential benefits of biobanks. We offer some suggestions for improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inmaculada de Melo-Martín
- Division of Medical Ethics, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Eva Ortega-Paíno
- Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO), Biobanco, Madrid, Spain
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Rajagopalan RM, Cakici J, Bloss CS. A Vision for Empirical ELSI along the R&D Pipeline. AJOB Empir Bioeth 2024; 15:81-86. [PMID: 38214924 DOI: 10.1080/23294515.2023.2297931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Ramya M Rajagopalan
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, UC San Diego, La Jolla, USA
- Center for Empathy and Technology, T. Denny Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion, UC San Diego, La Jolla, USA
| | - Julie Cakici
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, UC San Diego, La Jolla, USA
- School of Public Health, San Diego State University, La Jolla, USA
| | - Cinnamon S Bloss
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, UC San Diego, La Jolla, USA
- Center for Empathy and Technology, T. Denny Sanford Institute for Empathy and Compassion, UC San Diego, La Jolla, USA
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5
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Domaradzki J, Walkowiak D. When Biobanks Meet Religion: Association Between Religiosity and Attitudes of Polish Medical Students Toward Biobanking of Human Biological Material for Research Purposes. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2024; 63:1178-1213. [PMID: 37847446 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-023-01932-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
While biobanking is expanding globally, the empirical evidence concerning the impact of religion on future healthcare professionals' awareness and willingness to donate biospecimens for biobank research is lacking. To understand how medical students' religious beliefs can fuel their questions regarding how biospecimens would be stored, cared for, and used, we conducted a survey among 1500 medical students at Poznań University of Medical Sciences. Our findings suggest that, while both religious and nonreligious students supported the idea of biobanking of human biological material and were willing to donate for research purposes, nonreligious students felt more positive toward biobanking, supported the idea of establishing biobanks in Poland more often, and were more eager to donate most types of tissues and to participate in biobank research. Religious beliefs were also associated with medical students' perception of benefits and risks resulting from biobanking, perceived trust toward various biobank institutions, and preferred type of consent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Domaradzki
- Department of Social Sciences and Humanities, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 7, St., 60-806, Poznan, Poland.
| | - Dariusz Walkowiak
- Department of Organization and Management in Health Care, Poznań University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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Ibrahim ME, Adarmouch L, Elgamri A, Abd ElHafeez S, Mohammed Z, Abdelgawad F, Elsebaie EH, Abdelhafiz AS, Gamel E, El Rhazi K, Abdelnaby A, Ahram M, Silverman H. Researchers' Perspectives Regarding Ethical Issues of Biobank Research in the Arab Region. Biopreserv Biobank 2024; 22:98-109. [PMID: 36951637 PMCID: PMC11044858 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2022.0112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The recent expansion of genomic biobank research in the Arab region in the Middle East North Africa has raised complex ethical and regulatory issues. However, there is a lack of studies regarding the views of Arab researchers involved in such research. We aimed to assess the perceptions and attitudes of Arab researchers regarding these issues in biobank research. Methods: We developed a questionnaire to assess the perceptions and attitudes regarding genetic research of researchers from Egypt, Sudan, Morocco, and Jordan. The questionnaire requested demographic data, perceptions, and attitudes regarding the collection, storage, and use of biospecimens and data, the use of broad consent, data security, data sharing, and community engagement. We used multiple linear regressions to identify predictors of perceptions and attitudes. Results: We recruited 383 researchers. Researchers favored equally the use of broad and tiered consent (44.1% and 39.1%, respectively). Most respondents agreed with the importance of confidentiality protections to ensure data security (91.8%). However, lower percentages were seen regarding the importance of community engagement (64.5%), data sharing with national colleagues and international partners (60.9% and 41.1%, respectively), and biospecimen sharing with national colleagues and international partners (59.9% and 36.2%, respectively). Investigators were evenly split on whether the return of individual research results should depend on the availability or not of a medical intervention that can be offered to address the genetic anomaly (47.5% and 46.4%, respectively). Predictors of attitudes toward biospecimen research included serving on Research Ethics Committees, prior research ethics training, and affiliation with nonacademic institutions. Conclusions: We recommend further exploratory research with researchers regarding the importance of community engagement and to address their concerns about data sharing, with researchers within and outside their countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha E. Ibrahim
- Department of Physical Medicine, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Latifa Adarmouch
- Department of Community Medicine, Public Health and Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakesh, Morocco
| | - Alya Elgamri
- Department of Orthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry and Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Samar Abd ElHafeez
- Epidemiology Department, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Zeinab Mohammed
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Fatma Abdelgawad
- Pediatric Dentistry and Dental Public Health Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Eman H. Elsebaie
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Samir Abdelhafiz
- Department of Clinical Pathology, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ehsan Gamel
- Department of Oral Rehabilitation, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Karima El Rhazi
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Asmaa Abdelnaby
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mamoun Ahram
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Henry Silverman
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Walkowiak D, Miraleyeva A, Batyrova T, Domaradzki J. Support for Research Biobanks Among Medical Students in the Republic of Kazakhstan. Biopreserv Biobank 2024. [PMID: 38527285 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2023.0114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Over the past few years, several biobanks have been organized in the Republic of Kazakhstan (RoK). As research biobanks are becoming an increasingly important tool for precision medicine, they require competent biobankers who will help disseminate the idea of biobanking throughout the society and support donation for research purposes. This study aimed to assess the support for research biobanks among medical students (MSs) in Kazakhstan. Methods: This research includes data from an anonymous, self-administered online questionnaire regarding MSs' support for research biobanks in the RoK. Results: Only 212 (31.3%) MSs have heard of biobanks and 466 (68.7%) have not. Students who were biobank-aware held more positive views regarding biobanks, were more likely to support the idea of establishing a research biobank in Kazakhstan, and expressed a greater willingness to donate their biological material for research purposes. Students' awareness of biobanks was also associated with the respondents' motivations to donate. Students who were familiar with biobanks tended to be motivated by altruistic reasons more often, and those unfamiliar with biobanks tended to indicate selfish motives. Students' attitudes toward donation to various types of research and biobanks were influenced by their awareness of biobanks, any family history of genetic disease, experience of chronic disease, declared religiousness, hospitalization history, blood donor status, and year of study. Conclusion: Since MSs' awareness of research biobanks is low, there is an urgent need for biobank education in Kazakhstan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dariusz Walkowiak
- Department of Organization and Management in Health Care, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Alua Miraleyeva
- Department of Psychology, West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University, Aktobe, Kazakhstan
| | - Tamara Batyrova
- Department of Normal Physiology, West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University, Aktobe, Kazakhstan
| | - Jan Domaradzki
- Department of Social Sciences and Humanities, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
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Pronicki Ł, Czech M, Gujski M, Boguszewska ND. Awareness, Attitudes and Willingness to Donate Biological Samples to a Biobank: A Survey of a Representative Sample of Polish Citizens. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2714. [PMID: 37893788 PMCID: PMC10606933 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11202714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Biotechnology is developing at an ever-increasing pace, and the progressive computerization of health care and research is making it increasingly easy to share data. One of the fastest growing areas is biobanking. However, even with the best equipment and the best trained staff, a biobank will be useless without donors. For this reason, we have decided to gauge Polish citizens' awareness and attitudes towards biobanking and their willingness to donate biological samples. For this purpose the survey was conducted among a nationwide group of 1052 Poles aged 18 and over where the totals for gender, age and place of residence were selected according to their representation in the total population of adult Poles. The survey was conducted using the Computer Assisted Web Interview (CAWI) technique. Approximately two thirds of respondents N = 701 (66.6%) indicated that they had heard of scientific studies in which samples of biological material such as blood, saliva or urine are collected. More than half of respondents (N = 613, 58.3%) had a positive opinion regarding scientific research in which samples of biological material are taken. Only N = 220 (20.9%) of respondents had previously encountered the term biobanking. More than a half N = 687 (65.3%) of respondents would participate in a scientific study that biobanked biological material and health information. Almost half of the respondents (48.0%) would like specific consent to be used in biobanking. In our study we observed a negligible correlation between socio-demographic factors and a willingness to donate biological material to a biobank. Considering the results presented above, the level of knowledge and awareness of biobanks, and their role in scientific research and the health care system, among Polish citizens is low and requires education and information activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Łukasz Pronicki
- Department of Public Health, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warszawa, Poland
| | - Marcin Czech
- Institute of Mother and Child, 01-211 Warszawa, Poland
| | - Mariusz Gujski
- Department of Public Health, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warszawa, Poland
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Domaradzki J, Walkowiak MP, Walkowiak D. Cluster Donation: How Future Healthcare Professionals Bound Certain Types of Tissues and Biomedical Research and How It Affects Their Willingness to Donate. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2636. [PMID: 37830675 PMCID: PMC10572418 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11192636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Although biomedical research requires cooperation with a large number of donors, its success also depends on the input of healthcare professionals who play a crucial role in promoting biomedical research and influencing an individual's decision to donate one's biospecimens that are left over after a medical procedure. This work was aimed at investigating the correlation between medical and healthcare students' willingness to donate a biospecimen, the type of tissues to be donated, and the type of biomedical research to be conducted. A population survey among medical and healthcare students enrolled at the Poznan University of Medical Sciences was conducted on their attitudes toward the donation of human biological material for research purposes. A total of 1500 students responded and completed the survey. The questionnaire used multiple-choice closed-ended questions designed to explore medical and healthcare students' preferences for sharing particular types of tissues and donating to a particular type of biomedical research. It asked three questions: 1. Which type of tissue would people be willing to donate for research purposes? 2. Which organs would they be willing to donate after death? 3. What type of research would they be willing to donate to? While future healthcare professionals' beliefs regarding certain types of tissues and research can influence their willingness to donate for research purposes, many students tend to think about the body and biomedical research in terms of clusters. Consequently, their willingness to donate certain tissues for a particular type of research can affect their decision to donate other tissues. Our data suggest that cluster thinking with regard to donation can be a predictor of people's readiness to participate in the collection and management of biospecimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Domaradzki
- Department of Social Sciences and Humanities, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-806 Poznan, Poland
| | - Marcin Piotr Walkowiak
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznan, Poland
| | - Dariusz Walkowiak
- Department of Organization and Management in Health Care, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-356 Poznan, Poland
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10
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Domaradzki J, Czekajewska J, Walkowiak D. To donate or not to donate? Future healthcare professionals' opinions on biobanking of human biological material for research purposes. BMC Med Ethics 2023; 24:53. [PMID: 37481540 PMCID: PMC10363302 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-023-00930-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over the last few decades biobanks have been recognised as institutions that may revolutionise biomedical research and the development of personalised medicine. Poland, however, still lacks clear regulations regarding the running of biobanks and the conducting of biomedical research. While the awareness of the general public regarding biobanks is low, healthcare professions and medical students also lack basic knowledge regarding biobanks, and such ignorance may affect their support for biobanks. METHODS This study is aimed at assessing the knowledge and attitudes of future healthcare professionals towards the donation of human biological material for research purposes and is based on a sample of 865 Polish medical students at Poznań University of Medical Sciences. RESULTS This research has shown that the awareness of medical students' regarding biobanks is low. It has also shown that while the majority of future healthcare professionals enrolled in this study supported the idea of biobank research and declared themselves willing to donate, still many students felt ambivalent about the biobanking of human biological material for research purposes and expressed concerns over biobanking research. While the primarily motivation to participate in biobank research was the desire to help advance science and to develop innovative therapies, the most common reason for a refusal was the fear that the government, insurance companies or employers, might have access to the samples. Concerns over unethical use of samples and data safety were also prevalent. More than half of students opted for a study-specific model of consent and only a few opted for broad consent. CONCLUSIONS This research suggests that a lack of knowledge about biobanks, their role and activities may affect medical students' support for biobanks and their active participation in the collection and management of biospecimens for research purposes. Since in the future medical, nursing and pharmacy students will be involved in the collection, storage, testing and analysis of biospecimens from their patients, medical students in all professional fields should be trained regarding the concept, purposes and operational procedures of biobanks, as well as the ethical, legal and social implications of biobank research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Domaradzki
- Department of Social Sciences and Humanities, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 7, St., Poznań, 60-806, Poland.
| | - Justyna Czekajewska
- Department of Social Sciences and Humanities, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 7, St., Poznań, 60-806, Poland
| | - Dariusz Walkowiak
- Department of Organization and Management in Health Care, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
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Caron NR, Adam W, Anderson K, Boswell BT, Chongo M, Deineko V, Dick A, Hall SE, Hatcher JT, Howard P, Hunt M, Linn K, O’Neill A. Partnering with First Nations in Northern British Columbia Canada to Reduce Inequity in Access to Genomic Research. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5783. [PMID: 37239512 PMCID: PMC10218428 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20105783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Indigenous-led, culturally safe health research and infrastructure are essential to address existing inequities and disparities for Indigenous Peoples globally. Biobanking, genomic research, and self-governance could reduce the existing divide and increase Indigenous participation in health research. While genomic research advances medicine, barriers persist for Indigenous patients to benefit. In northern BC, Canada, the Northern Biobank Initiative (NBI), with guidance from a Northern First Nations Biobank Advisory Committee (NFNBAC), has engaged in consultations with First Nations on biobanking and genomic research. Key informant interviews and focus groups conducted with First Nations leaders, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community members established culturally safe ways of biobanking and exploring genomic research. Strong support for a Northern British Columbia First Nations Biobank (NBCFNB) that will promote choice, inclusion, and access to health research opportunities emerged. The acceptance and enthusiasm for the development of this NBCFNB and its governance table highlight the shift towards Indigenous ownership and support of health research and its benefits. With engagement and partnership, community awareness, multigenerational involvement, and support from diverse and experienced healthcare leaders, the NBCFNB will establish this culturally safe, locally driven, and critically important research priority that may serve as an example for diverse Indigenous groups when designing their unique biobanking or genomic research opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine R. Caron
- UBC Northern Medical Program and Department of Surgery, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
- UBC Centre for Excellence in Indigenous Health, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
- First Nations Health Authority Chair in Cancer and Wellness at UBC, UBC Health and Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Wilf Adam
- Elder Advisor, Burns Lake, BC V0J 1E0, Canada
| | - Kate Anderson
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4067, Australia
| | - Brooke T. Boswell
- Community Health Sciences, University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC), Prince George, BC V2N 4Z9, Canada
| | - Meck Chongo
- University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A2, Canada
| | - Viktor Deineko
- Northern Biobank at the University Hospital of Northern BC, Northern Health, George, BC V2M 1S2, Canada
| | - Alexanne Dick
- First Nations Health Authority Chair in Cancer and Wellness at UBC, UBC Health and Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Shannon E. Hall
- First Nations Biobank, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Vancouver Campus, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Jessica T. Hatcher
- UBC Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Patricia Howard
- First Nations Health Authority, Northern Region, Prince George, BC V2L 5R8, Canada
| | - Megan Hunt
- First Nations Health Authority, Northern Region, Prince George, BC V2L 5R8, Canada
| | - Kevin Linn
- First Nations Health Authority Chair in Cancer and Wellness at UBC, UBC Health and Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Ashling O’Neill
- UBC Northern Medical Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
- School of Health Sciences, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC V2N 4Z9, Canada
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12
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Arat S, Huynh R, Kumpf S, Qian J, Shoieb A, Virgen-Slane R, Voigt F, Xie Z, Jakubczak JL. Effects of donor source on transcriptomic profiles of human kidney tissue. FASEB J 2023; 37:e22804. [PMID: 36753402 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202201754r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Normal human tissue is a critical reference control in biomedical research. However, the type of tissue donor can significantly affect the underlying biology of the samples. We investigated the impact of tissue donor source type by performing transcriptomic analysis on healthy kidney tissue from three donor source types: cadavers, organ donors, and normal-adjacent tissue from surgical resections of clear cell renal cell carcinomas, and we compared the gene expression profiles to those of clear cell renal cell carcinoma samples. Comparisons among the normal samples revealed general similarity, with notable differences in gene expression pathways involving immune system and inflammatory processes, response to extracellular stimuli, ion transport, and metabolism. When compared to tumors, the transcriptomic profiles of the normal adjacent tissue were highly similar to the profiles from cadaveric and organ donor tissue samples, arguing against the presence of a field cancerization effect in clear cell renal cell carcinoma. We conclude that all three normal source types are suitable for reference kidney control samples, but important differences must be noted for particular research areas and tissue banking strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seda Arat
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Worldwide Research, Development and Medical, Pfizer Inc., Groton, Connecticut, USA
| | - Renee Huynh
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Worldwide Research, Development and Medical, Pfizer Inc., Groton, Connecticut, USA
| | - Steven Kumpf
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Worldwide Research, Development and Medical, Pfizer Inc., Groton, Connecticut, USA
| | - Jessie Qian
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Worldwide Research, Development and Medical, Pfizer Inc., Groton, Connecticut, USA
| | - Ahmed Shoieb
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Worldwide Research, Development and Medical, Pfizer Inc., Groton, Connecticut, USA
| | - Richard Virgen-Slane
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Worldwide Research, Development and Medical, Pfizer Inc., La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Frank Voigt
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Worldwide Research, Development and Medical, Pfizer Inc., Groton, Connecticut, USA
| | - Zhiyong Xie
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Worldwide Research, Development and Medical, Pfizer Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - John L Jakubczak
- Drug Safety Research and Development, Worldwide Research, Development and Medical, Pfizer Inc., Groton, Connecticut, USA
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Singh S, Cadigan RJ, Moodley K. Research-Related Stakeholders' Perspectives on Sociocultural Considerations in Biobanking Practice in South Africa. Biopreserv Biobank 2023; 21:81-89. [PMID: 35759422 PMCID: PMC9963473 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2021.0149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Biobanking practice continues to proliferate in South Africa, yet little is known about how stakeholders engage with social, cultural, and religious considerations in this area of research. This study was undertaken to establish the perspectives of South African stakeholders (researchers, biobankers, clinicians, and research committee members) on sociocultural considerations in biobanking research. Methods: This in-depth exploratory study used semistructured face-to-face or Skype interviews with 25 purposively selected stakeholders involved in the biobanking-related practice. The study sample comprised biobankers, clinicians, researchers, postgraduate students in biobanking research, and research ethics committee members in South Africa. The interview focused on social and cultural challenges facing the biobanking practice in the country. Further probes included stakeholder perspectives on ownership and custodianship of stored biosamples. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the collected data. Results and Discussion: Several themes arose from the data analysis. These included respondents' perceptions of poor understanding of biobanking among research participants and communities; inconsistency in defining ownership and custodianship of biosamples; variability in respondents' understanding of cultural, religious, and social implications of biobanking; the notion of distrust; and building trust in biobanking. There were also inconsistencies in respondents' recognition of social, cultural, and/or religious influences on participant decision-making in biobanking research. Respondents highlighted that a general climate of distrust existed in the biobanking practice in South Africa. Conclusion: There is a need for greater stakeholder awareness of sociocultural considerations in biobanking practice in South Africa. One possible way to achieve this could be through the availability of training programs aimed at improving stakeholder understanding of the sociocultural context for biobanking practice in addition to greater efforts at community engagement with respect to all biobanking activities and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenuka Singh
- Department of Medicine, Centre for Medical Ethics and Law, Faculty of Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Rosemary Jean Cadigan
- Department of Social Medicine, Center for Bioethics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Keymanthri Moodley
- Department of Medicine, Centre for Medical Ethics and Law, Faculty of Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, Cape Town, South Africa
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Ahram M, Abdelgawad F, ElHafeez SA, Abdelhafiz AS, Ibrahim ME, Elgamri A, Mohammed Z, El-Rhazi K, Elsebaie E, Gamel E, Shahouri M, Mostafa NT, Adarmouch L, Silverman H. Perceptions, attitudes, and willingness of the public in low- and middle-income countries of the Arab region to participate in biobank research. BMC Med Ethics 2022; 23:122. [PMID: 36457067 PMCID: PMC9713115 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-022-00855-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Population-based genomics studies have proven successful in identifying genetic variants associated with diseases. High-quality biospecimens linked with informative health data from diverse segments of the population have made such research possible. However, the success of biobank research depends on the willingness of the public to participate in this type of research. We aimed to explore the factors associated with the willingness of the public to participate in biobank research from four low- and middle-income countries in the Arab region (Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, and Sudan). We used a previously validated questionnaire to assess several constructs that included the public's perceptions, attitudes, and willingness to participate in biobank research. We recruited 967 participants. More than half did not have prior awareness of biobanks. Participants' willingness to donate biospecimens and health data was less than 10%. Our results also showed that participants harbored concerns with trust, privacy, and with data-sharing involving international researchers. Predictors of willingness to participate in biobank research included no previous involvement in research and positive attitudes toward biobanks. Finally, our study showed several differences between the four countries regarding several of the investigated constructs. We conclude there should be additional efforts to raise public awareness and enhance perceptions of the public in biobanking research to enhance trust. We further recommend qualitative research to explore the underlying factors that contribute to the public's concerns with international data sharing that would enhance global health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamoun Ahram
- grid.9670.80000 0001 2174 4509School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Fatma Abdelgawad
- grid.7776.10000 0004 0639 9286Faculty of Dentistry, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Samar Abd ElHafeez
- grid.7155.60000 0001 2260 6941High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | | | - Maha Emad Ibrahim
- grid.33003.330000 0000 9889 5690Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Alya Elgamri
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Khartoum, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Zeinab Mohammed
- grid.411662.60000 0004 0412 4932Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt
| | - Karima El-Rhazi
- Faculty of Medicine of Fez, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abellah University, Fez, Morocco
| | - Eman Elsebaie
- grid.7776.10000 0004 0639 9286Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ehsan Gamel
- grid.9763.b0000 0001 0674 6207Faculty of Dentistry, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | | | | | - Latifa Adarmouch
- grid.411840.80000 0001 0664 9298Faculty of Medicine, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakesh, Morocco
| | - Henry Silverman
- grid.411024.20000 0001 2175 4264University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
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Borisova AL, Pokrovskaya MS, Meshkov AN, Kontsevaya AV, Drapkina OM. Risk management in biobanking. КАРДИОВАСКУЛЯРНАЯ ТЕРАПИЯ И ПРОФИЛАКТИКА 2022. [DOI: 10.15829/1728-8800-2022-3400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Risk management is a key aspect of the organization and management of biobanks, which is part of the overall quality management system aimed at early detection, analysis and minimization of events, that can lead to negative consequences for the biobank, as well as affect the quality of biosamples and related data. The article presents the biobanking risk classification with the description of each category.Aim. To develop and implement the methodology for identification, analysis, evaluation and development of risk management measures for the biobanking process in the biobank of the National Medical Research Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine.Material and methods. We present the methodology of the risk management process developed on the basis of the literary data, world experience and experience of the biobank of the National Medical Research Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine.Results. The biobanking risk management procedure was developed and implemented in the biobank of the National Medical Research Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine in 2020. The work carried out made it possible to identify, analyze and evaluate a wide range of potential negative events and actions that could lead to biobank damage, both in the form of financial losses and ethical and technical issues related to the biobanking process. A significant reduction in the frequency of emergency events and the high stability of the biobank operation under the influence of various external factors prove the effectiveness of the approach used.Conclusion. The creation and maintenance of a risk management system in the biobank allows, in combination with other measures, to ensure the safety and high quality of the procedures for collecting, processing and long-term storage of biomaterial and related data by creating an environment that rules out or minimizes the impact of various risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. L. Borisova
- National Medical Research Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine
| | - M. S. Pokrovskaya
- National Medical Research Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine
| | - A. N. Meshkov
- National Medical Research Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine
| | - A. V. Kontsevaya
- National Medical Research Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine
| | - O. M. Drapkina
- National Medical Research Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine
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16
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Abdelhafiz AS, Ahram M, Ibrahim ME, Elgamri A, Gamel E, Labib R, Silverman H. Biobanks in the low- and middle-income countries of the Arab Middle East region: challenges, ethical issues, and governance arrangements—a qualitative study involving biobank managers. BMC Med Ethics 2022; 23:83. [PMID: 35965314 PMCID: PMC9375918 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-022-00822-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Biobanks have recently been established in several low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) in the Arab region of the Middle East. We aimed to explore the views of biobank managers regarding the challenges, ethical issues, and governance arrangements of their biobanks. Methods In-depth semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of eight biobank managers from Egypt (6), Jordan (1), and Sudan (1). Interviews were performed either face-to-face, by phone, or via Zoom and lasted approximately 45–75 min. After verbal consent, interviews were recorded and then transcribed. The authors performed a thematic analysis of the transcripts independently and then integrated the themes via a consensus process. Results Biobank managers discussed the main challenges in establishing their biobanks. These included the staff’s lack of experience and training, limited funds, deficit awareness of biobanks, obtaining funding from different sources. Only four reported they were active in distributing biospecimens and health data to researchers. Six biobanks used a broad consent model, one used tiered consent, and another allowed participants to opt-out of being recontacted. Five managers avoided partnerships with pharmaceutical companies due to concerns with unfavorable reactions from the community. Five managers did not have clear policies for returning research results to the donors. Five expressed challenges with sample and data sharing with international collaborators; all five used material transfer agreements. The biobank managers revealed variable governance arrangements and activities with community involving awareness and educational efforts rather than active engagement. Several expressed the importance of transparency with the operations of their biobanks and gaining the trust of their stakeholders. Conclusion Managers of biobanks in LMICs in the Arab Middle East encounter financial, operational, and social challenges toward their sustainability efforts. Discussions with key stakeholders are warranted to manage ethical issues involving informed consent, privacy, data sharing, and the return of results. We recommend that biobank managers in the Arab Middle East form collaborative networks within the region and internationally, develop trusting governance relationships with their stakeholders, and pursue engagement activities with their communities to enhance trust. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12910-022-00822-8.
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Bledsoe MJ, Grizzle WE. The Use of Human Tissues for Research: What Investigators Need to Know. Altern Lab Anim 2022; 50:265-274. [PMID: 35801971 DOI: 10.1177/02611929221107933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
While laboratory animals are necessary for some aspects of the development of scientific and biomedical advances, including those of precision medicine, the use of human tissues is necessary in order to explore the findings and ensure that they are relevant to human systems. Many sources of human tissues exist, but researchers - particularly those making the transition from animal to human systems - may not be aware of how best to find quality sources of human tissues or how best to use them in their research. In this article, we discuss the advantages of using human tissues in research. In addition, we highlight some of the major advances made possible through the use of human tissue, and describe how human tissue is collected for research. We discuss the various types of bioresources that make human tissue available, and advise on how investigators can find and use appropriate bioresources to support their research - with the hope that this information will help facilitate the transition from research on animals to research using human tissues, as rapidly as is practicable.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - William E Grizzle
- Department of Pathology; 9968University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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18
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Pawlikowski J, Wiechetek M, Majchrowska A. Associations between the Willingness to Donate Samples to Biobanks and Selected Psychological Variables. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19052552. [PMID: 35270246 PMCID: PMC8910049 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19052552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Over the past few decades, there has been a dynamic development of biobanks collecting human biological material and data. Advances in biomedical research based on biobanks, however, are highly dependent on the successful enrolment and participation of human subjects. Therefore, it is crucial to recognise those factors affecting the willingness of individuals to participate in biomedical research. There are very few studies pointing to the role of trust, preferred values and specific psychological factors. The aim of our study was the analysis of the most significant relationships between selected moral and psychological variables (i.e., preferred values, types of trust and personality) and willingness to donate biological material to biobanks. The research was carried out on a Polish representative national sample of 1100 people over 18 years of age. Statistical methods with regression models were used during the analyses. The willingness to donate samples to a biobank was associated with different types of trust and specific values. Based on regression analysis, the most important factors related to the willingness to donate material to biobanks seemed to be (1) trust towards scientists and doctors and (2) selected preferred values such as knowledge, self-development and tradition. Other values or personality traits did not seem to be as important in this context. The obtained results can be useful in building the social responsibility of biobankers and scientists, issuing more appropriate opinions by research ethics committees and planning better communication strategies between participants and biobanks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Pawlikowski
- Department of Humanities and Social Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
- Biobanking and Biomolecular Resources Research Infrastructure Poland, BBMRI.pl Consortium, 54-066 Wrocław, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Michał Wiechetek
- Institute of Psychology, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, 20-950 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Anita Majchrowska
- Department of Humanities and Social Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
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Ascencio-Carbajal T, Saruwatari-Zavala G, Navarro-Garcia F, Frixione E. Genetic/genomic testing: defining the parameters for ethical, legal and social implications (ELSI). BMC Med Ethics 2021; 22:156. [PMID: 34814901 PMCID: PMC8609860 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-021-00720-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genetic/genomic testing (GGT) are useful tools for improving health and preventing diseases. Still, since GGT deals with sensitive personal information that could significantly impact a patient's life or that of their family, it becomes imperative to consider Ethical, Legal and Social Implications (ELSI). Thus, ELSI studies aim to identify and address concerns raised by genomic research that could affect individuals, their family, and society. However, there are quantitative and qualitative discrepancies in the literature to describe the elements that provide content to the ELSI studies and such problems may result in patient misinformation and harmful choices. METHODS We analyzed the major international documents published by international organizations to specify the parameters that define ELSI and the recognized criteria for GGT, which may prove useful for researchers, health professionals and policymakers. First, we defined the parameters of the ethical, legal and social fields in GGT to avoid ambiguities when using the acronym ELSI. Then, we selected nine documents from 44 relevant publications by international organizations related to genomic medicine. RESULTS We identified 29 ELSI sub-criteria concerning to GGT, which were organized and grouped within 10 minimum criteria: two from the ethical field, four from the legal field and four from the social field. An additional analysis of the number of appearances of these 29 sub-criteria in the analyzed documents allowed us to order them and to determine 7 priority criteria for starting to evaluate and propose national regulations for GGT. CONCLUSIONS We propose that the ELSI criteria identified herein could serve as a starting point to formulate national regulation on personalized genomic medicine, ensuring consistency with international bioethical requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Ascencio-Carbajal
- Program of Science, Technology and Society, Center for Research and Advanced Studies IPN (Cinvestav), 07360, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Garbiñe Saruwatari-Zavala
- Department of Legal, Ethical and Social Studies, National Institute of Genomic Medicine (Inmegen), 14610, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Fernando Navarro-Garcia
- Program of Science, Technology and Society, Center for Research and Advanced Studies IPN (Cinvestav), 07360, Mexico City, Mexico.
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies IPN (Cinvestav), 07360, Mexico City, Mexico.
| | - Eugenio Frixione
- Program of Science, Technology and Society, Center for Research and Advanced Studies IPN (Cinvestav), 07360, Mexico City, Mexico.
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies IPN (Cinvestav), 07360, Mexico City, Mexico.
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20
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Ochieng J, Kwagala B, Barugahare J, Mwaka E, Ekusai-Sebatta D, Ali J, Sewankambo NK. Perspectives and ethical considerations for return of genetics and genomics research results: a qualitative study of genomics researchers in Uganda. BMC Med Ethics 2021; 22:154. [PMID: 34798900 PMCID: PMC8603565 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-021-00724-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The return of genetics and genomics research results has been a subject of ongoing global debate. Such feedback is ethically desirable to update participants on research findings particularly those deemed clinically significant. Although there is limited literature, debate continues in African on what constitutes appropriate practice regarding the return of results for genetics and genomics research. This study explored perspectives and ethical considerations of Ugandan genomics researchers regarding the return of genetics and genomics research results. METHODS This was a qualitative study that employed in-depth interviews. Thirty participants were purposively selected based on their expertise as genomics researchers in Uganda. Data were analysed through content analysis along the main themes of the study using a comprehensive thematic matrix, to identify common patterns arising from the narratives. NVivo software 12 was used to support data analysis. RESULTS The return of genetics and genomics research results was generally acceptable to researchers, and some indicated that they had previously returned individual or aggregate results to participants and communities. The main reasons cited for sharing research results with participants included their clinical utility, actionability and overall benefit to society. Ethical considerations for appropriate return of results included a need for effective community engagement, genetic counselling prior to disclosure of the results, adequate informed consent, and proper assessment of the implications of, or consequences of returning of results. However, the approaches to return of results were perceived as unstandardized due to the lack of appropriate regulatory frameworks. CONCLUSIONS The return of genetic and genomic research results is generally acceptable to researchers despite the lack of appropriate regulatory frameworks. Ethical considerations for return of genetics and genomics research results are highly divergent, hence the need for national ethical guidelines to appropriately regulate the practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Ochieng
- Department of Anatomy, College of Health Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University, P.O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Betty Kwagala
- School of Business and Management Studies, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Erisa Mwaka
- Department of Anatomy, College of Health Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University, P.O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Deborah Ekusai-Sebatta
- Department of Anatomy, College of Health Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, Makerere University, P.O Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joseph Ali
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
- Johns Hopkins Berman Institute of Bioethics, Baltimore, USA
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Khatib F, Jibrin D, Al-Majali J, Elhussieni M, Almasaid S, Ahram M. Views of university students in Jordan towards Biobanking. BMC Med Ethics 2021; 22:152. [PMID: 34774033 PMCID: PMC8590123 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-021-00719-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Biobanks are considered primary means+ of supporting contemporary research, in order to deliver personalized and precise diagnostics with public acceptance and participation as a cornerstone for their success. Aims This study aims to assess knowledge, perception, and attitudes towards biomedical research and biobanking among students at the University of Jordan. Methodology An online questionnaire was designed, developed, and piloted. It was divided into 5 sections that included questions related to issues of biomedical research and biobanking as well as factors influencing the decision to participate. Results Responses from 435 students revealed that 52.9% previously heard of biobanks. There was an overwhelming acceptance for participation in biomedical, genetic, and biobanking research. A blood sample was the most preferred for donation. Protection of privacy, informed consent prior to donation, approval of an ethics committee, and trust towards researchers were the most important factors associated with willingness to participate. On the other hand, the vagueness of the type of research performed on the biospecimens and the unavailability of general research results to the donor had a negative connotation. There was no clear agreement on the type of informed consent preferred by students, but to be contacted and informed of research results was preferred by the majority. Students also preferred the disposal of biospecimens and information when deciding to withdraw from participation. Conclusion There is strong enthusiasm among students to participate in biomedical research and biobanking with all rights reserved thus providing hope for a very promising future in Jordan. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12910-021-00719-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faisal Khatib
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Dayana Jibrin
- School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, 11942, Jordan
| | - Joud Al-Majali
- School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, 11942, Jordan
| | - Mira Elhussieni
- School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, 11942, Jordan
| | | | - Mamoun Ahram
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan.
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Krekora-Zając D, Marciniak B, Pawlikowski J. Recommendations for Creating Codes of Conduct for Processing Personal Data in Biobanking Based on the GDPR art.40. Front Genet 2021; 12:711614. [PMID: 34868197 PMCID: PMC8633112 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.711614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Personal data protection has become a fundamental normative challenge for biobankers and scientists researching human biological samples and associated data. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) harmonises the law on protecting personal data throughout Europe and allows developing codes of conduct for processing personal data based on GDPR art. 40. Codes of conduct are a soft law measure to create protective standards for data processing adapted to the specific area, among others, to biobanking of human biological material. Challenges in this area were noticed by the European Data Protection Supervisor on data protection and Biobanking and BioMolecular Resources Research Infrastructure-European Research Infrastructure Consortium (BBMRI.ERIC). They concern mainly the specification of the definitions of the GDPR and the determination of the appropriate legal basis for data processing, particularly for transferring data to other European countries. Recommendations indicated in the article, which are based on the GDPR, guidelines published by the authority and expert bodies, and our experiences regarding the creation of the Polish code of conduct, should help develop how a code of conduct for processing personal data in biobanks should be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorota Krekora-Zając
- Department of Comparative Civil Law, Faculty of Law and Administration, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- BBMRI.pl Consortium, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Błażej Marciniak
- BBMRI.pl Consortium, Wroclaw, Poland
- Biobank Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biophysics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Łódź, Poland
| | - Jakub Pawlikowski
- BBMRI.pl Consortium, Wroclaw, Poland
- Department of Humanities and Social Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland
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Beusink M, Broeks A, van Kemenade FJ, Lam KH, Schmidt MK, Rebers S. Barriers and Facilitators for Implementing a National Guideline to Foster the Responsible Use of Residual Biospecimens and Data in Health Research. Biopreserv Biobank 2021; 20:67-74. [PMID: 34582256 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2020.0164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Residual biospecimens that are stored in hospitals' diagnostic specimen archives can be used for scientific research under strict legal and ethical regulations. In the Netherlands, a Code of Conduct governs responsible secondary use of residual biospecimens. However, implementation of this Code seems to be challenging. This study aims to explore the most important factors that facilitate or hinder the implementation of the Code. In addition, it investigates what is needed to further foster the responsible use of residual biospecimens. A mixed-methods design was used. Questionnaires were sent out to pathologists, patient information centers, physicians, researchers, data protection officers (DPOs), members of research ethics committees, and members of the boards of directors of all hospitals in the Netherlands (81 hospitals). To further investigate the barriers and facilitators, interviews were conducted with pathologists, patient information centers, physician-researchers, DPOs, review boards, research coordinators, and quality managers of pathology departments. In total, 246 respondents filled out the questionnaire and 36 interviews were conducted. Major barriers for implementing were a lack of resources (time, money), a lack of attention for responsible use, and a lack of practical knowledge (knowing what to do, where to go with questions). In contrast, the perception that implementing the Code was necessary, either by the respondent or by colleagues, was considered "a driver" for implementation. Practical instruments such as checklists and roadmaps were considered necessary to foster implementation; however, the creation of such instruments was hindered by a lack of clear-cut answers regarding legal aspects. Therefore, more clarity and harmonization on how to interpret both the Code and legislation regarding secondary use were considered necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Beusink
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annegien Broeks
- Core Facility-Molecular Pathology and Biobanking, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - King H Lam
- Pathology Department, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marjanka K Schmidt
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Susanne Rebers
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Tawa GJ, Braisted J, Gerhold D, Grewal G, Mazcko C, Breen M, Sittampalam G, LeBlanc AK. Transcriptomic profiling in canines and humans reveals cancer specific gene modules and biological mechanisms common to both species. PLoS Comput Biol 2021; 17:e1009450. [PMID: 34570764 PMCID: PMC8523068 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1009450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding relationships between spontaneous cancer in companion (pet) canines and humans can facilitate biomarker and drug development in both species. Towards this end we developed an experimental-bioinformatic protocol that analyzes canine transcriptomics data in the context of existing human data to evaluate comparative relevance of canine to human cancer. We used this protocol to characterize five canine cancers: melanoma, osteosarcoma, pulmonary carcinoma, B- and T-cell lymphoma, in 60 dogs. We applied an unsupervised, iterative clustering method that yielded five co-expression modules and found that each cancer exhibited a unique module expression profile. We constructed cancer models based on the co-expression modules and used the models to successfully classify the canine data. These canine-derived models also successfully classified human tumors representing the same cancers, indicating shared cancer biology between canines and humans. Annotation of the module genes identified cancer specific pathways relevant to cells-of-origin and tumor biology. For example, annotations associated with melanin production (PMEL, GPNMB, and BACE2), synthesis of bone material (COL5A2, COL6A3, and COL12A1), synthesis of pulmonary surfactant (CTSH, LPCAT1, and NAPSA), ribosomal proteins (RPL8, RPS7, and RPLP0), and epigenetic regulation (EDEM1, PTK2B, and JAK1) were unique to melanoma, osteosarcoma, pulmonary carcinoma, B- and T-cell lymphoma, respectively. In total, 152 biomarker candidates were selected from highly expressing modules for each cancer type. Many of these biomarker candidates are under-explored as drug discovery targets and warrant further study. The demonstrated transferability of classification models from canines to humans enforces the idea that tumor biology, biomarker targets, and associated therapeutics, discovered in canines, may translate to human medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory J. Tawa
- National Institutes of Health, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, Division of Preclinical Innovation, Therapeutic Development Branch, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - John Braisted
- National Institutes of Health, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, Division of Preclinical Innovation, Therapeutic Development Branch, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - David Gerhold
- National Institutes of Health, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, Division of Preclinical Innovation, Therapeutic Development Branch, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Gurmit Grewal
- National Institutes of Health, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, Division of Preclinical Innovation, Therapeutic Development Branch, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Christina Mazcko
- National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute, Center for Cancer Research, Comparative Oncology Program, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Matthew Breen
- Department of Molecular Biomedical Sciences, North Carolina State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Gurusingham Sittampalam
- National Institutes of Health, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, Division of Preclinical Innovation, Therapeutic Development Branch, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Amy K. LeBlanc
- National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute, Center for Cancer Research, Comparative Oncology Program, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
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Amin L, Olesen A, Mahadi Z, Ibrahim M. Current Status and Future Challenges of Biobank Research in Malaysia. Asian Bioeth Rev 2021; 13:297-315. [PMID: 34295385 PMCID: PMC8245627 DOI: 10.1007/s41649-021-00171-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The establishment of MyCohort in 2005 showed that there is a growing interest on the part of the Malaysian government in the creation of biobanks in the country. This project can be considered as the biggest and most comprehensive cohort study in Malaysia, where hundreds of thousands of human samples are stored for epidemiological and biomedical research. However, little is known about the current issues or the situation related to biobank research in Malaysia. There are pressing issues that need answers such as the governance of the national biobank as well as other privately owned biobanks in the nation, the public perspectives and perceptions regarding biobanks, and other matters such as the ethical, legal, and social issues related to biobank research. This article will highlight the status and issues related to biobank research in Malaysia and provide suggestions on future research practices that we feel need to be seriously considered. These suggestions are designed to advance and enlighten researchers' knowledge, as well as provide the public with information on issues associated to biobanking. Good governance increases public knowledge and trust, and religious acceptance of biobank research and accountability can lead to increased participation in biobank research. The direct implications of the discussion about the ethical, legal, and social issues of biobanks are pertinent for the foundation of knowledge relating to biobanks, as well as the forward gestures for future medicine for mankind.
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Affiliation(s)
- Latifah Amin
- Pusat Citra Universiti, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor Malaysia
| | - Angelina Olesen
- Pusat Citra Universiti, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor Malaysia
| | - Zurina Mahadi
- Pusat Citra Universiti, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor Malaysia
| | - Maznah Ibrahim
- Pusat Citra Universiti, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Selangor Malaysia
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Aaron R, Aaron D, Racine-Avila J, Menikoff J. The use of human biospecimens for research. J Orthop Res 2021; 39:1603-1610. [PMID: 33125765 DOI: 10.1002/jor.24885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
This discussion presents many of the ethical, legal, and financial issues that underlie the contemporary regulatory framework for research with human biospecimens. Some considerations, such as claims of donor control over their biospecimens, could potentially constrain researchers' freedom of action. We first consider concepts underlying consent to donate biospecimens for research. A requirement to obtain consent for donation of a biospecimen could conceptually be based upon the autonomy of the donor, or on property rights of the donor, or a combination of both concepts. If these concepts affect how consent is implemented, it could have significant downstream consequences for research and researchers. We present elements of the revision of the common rule that affect the use of human biospecimens including the current consent regulations based on transparency and autonomy, and the distinction between consent for, and ownership of, biospecimens. One of the major judicial opinions that denied property rights for biospecimens is described together with some implications for the research community of attributing ownership of biospecimens to their donors. We then consider transactional aspects of biospecimen donation. Considering biospecimens as a negotiable commodity presents both constraints and opportunities for donors and researchers. Compensation for biospecimens can be negotiated under contract law. Allowing donor control of the secondary research use of deidentified biospecimens could have an inhibiting effect on research. If donors possessed such control, even deidentification would not necessarily eliminate their ability to influence future research. Accordingly, new models of biospecimen donation are appearing in which the research community will have a substantial interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roy Aaron
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - David Aaron
- US Department of Justice, Trial Attorney, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Jennifer Racine-Avila
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Jerry Menikoff
- US Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Human Research Protections, Rockville, Maryland, USA
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Singh S, Moodley K. Stakeholder perspectives on the ethico-legal dimensions of biobanking in South Africa. BMC Med Ethics 2021; 22:84. [PMID: 34210291 PMCID: PMC8247071 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-021-00645-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Biobanking provides exciting opportunities for research on stored biospecimens. However, these opportunities to advance medical science are fraught with challenges including ethical and legal dilemmas. This study was undertaken to establish perspectives of South African stakeholders on the ethico-legal dimensions of biobanking. METHODS An in-depth exploratory study was conducted with 25 purposively selected biobankers, clinicians, researchers, postgraduate students in biobanking research, and research ethics committee (REC) members in South Africa. Potential study participants were recruited through known hubs for biobanking in the country, online searches and the snowball sampling technique. A semi-structured face-to-face or Skype interview was arranged. Data was analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS The emergent themes included: inconsistency in understanding consent models, disconnect between biobank researchers and biosample donors, inadequate processes to support re-consenting minors, inconsistent governance processes for biobanking research; challenges with sample and data sharing, and suboptimal strategies for benefit sharing and return of results. Biobanking practice in general appeared to be inconsistent and fragmented. While the need for consent in research is explicitly outlined in legislative documents, some respondents were unclear on the type of consent model to apply in biosample collection. They also reported inconsistencies in research participants' understanding of consent. Furthermore, these respondents' own understanding of consent and consent models were dependent on where they were positioned in biobanking practice (roles occupied). Respondents were unsure about the process to follow to re-consent child participants once the age of majority (≥ 18 years) was reached. It was not surprising that consent was identified as one of the major ethical challenges in biobanking practice. In certain settings, some respondents reported suboptimal governance processes for sample collection. Participants were generally unsure about how to operationalise benefit sharing and how to approach the idea of returning results to research participants and biobank donors. CONCLUSION The study findings indicated inconsistencies in stakeholder understanding of ethico-legal considerations related to biobanking in South Africa. A need for ongoing ethics capacity development among stakeholders was identified. Improving understanding of the ethics of biobanking could be facilitated by acknowledging the disconnect created by biosamples in the relationship between biobank researchers and donors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenuka Singh
- Centre for Medical Ethics and Law, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Keymanthri Moodley
- Centre for Medical Ethics and Law, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg, South Africa
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Ochieng CA, Minion JT, Turner A, Blell M, Murtagh MJ. What does engagement mean to participants in longitudinal cohort studies? A qualitative study. BMC Med Ethics 2021; 22:77. [PMID: 34167521 PMCID: PMC8223352 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-021-00648-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Engagement is important within cohort studies for a number of reasons. It is argued that engaging participants within the studies they are involved in may promote their recruitment and retention within the studies. Participant input can also improve study designs, make them more acceptable for uptake by participants and aid in contextualising research communication to participants. Ultimately it is also argued that engagement needs to provide an avenue for participants to feedback to the cohort study and that this is an ethical imperative. This study sought to explore the participants' experiences and thoughts of their engagement with their birth cohort study. METHODS Participants were recruited from the Children of the 90s (CO90s) study. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with 42 participants. The interviews were transcribed verbatim, and uploaded onto Nvivo software. They were then analysed via thematic analysis with a constant comparison technique. RESULTS Participants' experiences of their engagement with CO90s were broadly based on three aspects: communication they received from CO90s, experiences of ethical conduct from CO90s and receiving rewards from CO90s. The communication received from CO90s, ranged from newsletters explaining study findings and future studies, to more personal forms like annual greeting cards posted to each participant. Ethical conduct from CO90s mainly involved participants understanding that CO90s would keep their information confidential, that it was only involved in 'good' ethical research and their expectation that CO90s would always prioritise participant welfare. Some of the gifts participants said they received at CO90s included toys, shopping vouchers, results from clinical tests, and time off from school to attend data collection (Focus) days. Participants also described a temporality in their engagement with CO90s and the subsequent trust they had developed for the cohort study. CONCLUSION The experiences of engagement described by participants were theorized as being based on reciprocity which was sometimes overt and other times more nuanced. We further provide empirical evidence of participants' expectation for a reciprocal interaction with their cohort study while highlighting the trust that such an interaction fosters. Our study therefore provides key insights for other cohort studies on what participants value in their interactions with their cohort studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia A. Ochieng
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Canynge Hall, 39 Whatley Road, Bristol, BS8 2PS UK
| | - Joel T. Minion
- Qualitative Research Lead, Health Technology Assessment Unit, Department of Community Health Sciences, O’Brien Institute for Public Health, University of Calgary, 3280 Hospital Dr NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6 Canada
| | - Andrew Turner
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, 9th Floor, Whitefriars, Lewins Mead, Bristol, BS1 2NT UK
| | - Mwenza Blell
- School of Geography, Politics and Sociology, Newcastle University, 18-20 Windsor Terrace, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HE UK
| | - Madeleine J. Murtagh
- School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Glasgow, Adam Smith Building, Bute Gardens, Glasgow, G12 8RT UK
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Rychnovská D. Anticipatory Governance in Biobanking: Security and Risk Management in Digital Health. SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING ETHICS 2021; 27:30. [PMID: 33881646 PMCID: PMC8058749 DOI: 10.1007/s11948-021-00305-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Although big-data research has met with multiple controversies in diverse fields, political and security implications of big data in life sciences have received less attention. This paper explores how threats and risks are anticipated and acted on in biobanking, which builds research repositories for biomedical samples and data. Focusing on the biggest harmonisation cluster of biomedical research in Europe, BBMRI-ERIC, the paper analyses different logics of risk in the anticipatory discourse on biobanking. Based on document analysis, interviews with ELSI experts, and field research, three types of framing of risk are reconstructed: data security, privacy, and data misuse. The paper finds that these logics downplay the broader social and political context and reflects on the limits of the practices of anticipatory governance in biobanking. It argues that this regime of governance can make it difficult for biobanks to address possible future challenges, such as access to biomedical data by authorities, pressures for integrating biobank data with other type of personal data, or their use for profiling beyond medical purposes. To address potential controversies and societal implications related to the use of big data in health research and medicine, the paper suggests to expand the vocabulary and practices of anticipatory governance, in the biobanking community and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dagmar Rychnovská
- Department of International Relations, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK.
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Knowledge, perceptions and attitude of Egyptian physicians towards biobanking issues. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0248401. [PMID: 33770108 PMCID: PMC7996976 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0248401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Collection and storage of biospecimens and data for biobanking raise many ethical concerns. Stakeholders’ opinions about these ethical issues are important since they can help in the development of ethical guidelines to govern biobanking activities. Physicians are among the important stakeholders since they contact potential participants and could be biobank users. The goal of this study is to evaluate the perceptions and attitude of Egyptian physicians towards ethical issues in biobanking. Methods A cross-sectional online survey was designed and distributed with the target group between November 2019 and January 2020. Results The questionnaire was completed by 223 physicians. While 65.5% reported hearing the term "Biobanking" before, 45.7% knew that there are biobanks in Egypt. Participants had a general positive attitude towards the value of biobanks in research. About 73% agreed that biobanks can share biospecimens with international research organizations, but only 42.6% supported collaboration with pharmaceutical companies, and 44% agreed to the use of user fees by biobanks. About 48% supported the use of broad consent in biobanks, and 73.1% believed that donors of biospecimens should be informed about results of research performed on their biospecimens. Conclusion Although many Egyptian physicians heard about biobanking, they had limited knowledge about the existence of biobanks in Egypt. They had concerns about commercialization, use of broad consent and user fees. A knowledge gap exists among these stakeholders, which should be covered by different educational activities. Community discussions should start to reach consensus about the issues of commercialization and return of research results.
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Samir Abdelhafiz A, W. L. Ho C, Chuan Voo T. Recommendations for the development of Egyptian human biobanking ethical guidelines. Wellcome Open Res 2021; 6:4. [PMID: 33824911 PMCID: PMC8008429 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.16556.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The development of biobanks is associated with the emergence of new ethical challenges. In Egypt, several biobanks have been established, but there are no specific local ethical guidelines to guide their work. The aim of this study is to develop recommendations for the Egyptian human biobanking ethical guidelines, which take into consideration the specific cultural and legal framework in Egypt. Methods: We searched the literature for available biobanking ethical guidelines. Six themes were the concern of search, namely; informed consent, data protection, return of results, sharing of samples and data, community engagement, and stakeholder engagement. If a document refers to another guideline, the new source is identified and the previous step is repeated. Results: Ten documents were identified, which were analyzed for the themes mentioned above. Guidelines and best practices were identified, and then compared with the published documents about ethical, legal and social issues (ELSI) related to biomedical research in Egypt to reach best recommendations. Conclusions: We have proposed, by way of recommendations, key characteristics that a national ethics framework in Egypt could have. On informed consent, the practice of broad consent may be harmonized among biobanks in Egypt. Clear policies on return of research results, training requirements and availability of genetic counseling could also be instituted through the national framework. Additionally, such a framework should facilitate community and stakeholders engagement, which is important to secure trust and build consensus on contentious issues arising from sample and data sharing across borders and commercialization, among other concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Samir Abdelhafiz
- Department of Clinical pathology, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, 11796, Egypt
| | - Calvin W. L. Ho
- Faculty of Law, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Teck Chuan Voo
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapor, Singapore., Singapore
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Jacquier E, Laurent-Puig P, Badoual C, Burgun A, Mamzer MF. Facing new challenges to informed consent processes in the context of translational research: the case in CARPEM consortium. BMC Med Ethics 2021; 22:21. [PMID: 33653311 PMCID: PMC7927247 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-021-00592-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the context of translational research, researchers have increasingly been using biological samples and data in fundamental research phases. To explore informed consent practices, we conducted a retrospective study on informed consent documents that were used for CARPEM's translational research programs. This review focused on detailing their form, their informational content, and the adequacy of these documents with the international ethical principles and participants' rights. METHODS Informed consent forms (ICFs) were collected from CARPEM investigators. A content analysis focused on information related to biological samples and data treatment (context of sampling and collect, aims, reuse, consent renewal), including the type of consent. An automatic assessment of the readability of the ICFs were performed with the IT program "Flesch Score". RESULTS 29 ICFs from 25 of 49 studies were analyzed after selection criteria were applied. Three types of consent were identified: 11 broad consents, six specific consents, and two opt-out consents. The Flesch Scores showed that most of the documents were too complex to be fully understood by most of the potential research participants. Most of the biological samples were collected during the healthcare routine, but the information content about secondary use of biological samples varied between ICFs. All documents mentioned personal data treatment but information about their reuse was not standardized in the ICFs. CONCLUSIONS Our review of current IC procedures of CARPEM showed that practices could be improved considering new translational research methods. "Old fashion written ICFs" should be adapted to the translational research approach, to better respect individual rights and international research ethics principles. In this context, theoretically, a digital tool allowing dynamic information and consent of participants, through an electronic interactive platform may be a good way to promote more active participation in research. Nevertheless, its feasibility in the complex environment of biological samples and data research remains to prove. The way of a combination of a broad consent followed by dynamic information may be alternatively tested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Jacquier
- Centre de Recherche Des Cordeliers (UMRS 1138), INSERM, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, Team ETREs, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Pierre Laurent-Puig
- Centre de Recherche Des Cordeliers (UMRS 1138), Team Personalized Medicine, INSERM, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, Pharmacogenomics and Therapeutic Optimization, 75006 Paris, France
- Pharmacogénétique Et Oncologie Moléculaire, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance publique – Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Cécile Badoual
- Centre de Ressources Biologiques, Service d’anatomo-pathologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance publique – Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Anita Burgun
- Département D’informatique Médicale, de Biostatistique Et de Santé Publique, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance publique – Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
- UMR-S 1138, Centre de Recherche Des Cordeliers, Paris, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Universités, Paris, France
| | - Marie-France Mamzer
- Centre de Recherche Des Cordeliers (UMRS 1138), INSERM, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, Team ETREs, 75006 Paris, France
- Unité Fonctionnelle D’éthique Et Médecine Légale, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Maladies, Paris, France
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Samir Abdelhafiz A, W. L. Ho C, Chuan Voo T. Recommendations for the development of Egyptian human biobanking ethical guidelines. Wellcome Open Res 2021; 6:4. [PMID: 33824911 PMCID: PMC8008429 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.16556.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: The development of biobanks is associated with the emergence of new ethical challenges. In Egypt, several biobanks have been established, but there are no specific local ethical guidelines to guide their work. The aim of this study is to develop recommendations for the Egyptian human biobanking ethical guidelines, which take into consideration the specific cultural and legal framework in Egypt. Methods: We searched the literature for available biobanking ethical guidelines. Six themes were the concern of search, namely; informed consent, data protection, return of results, sharing of samples and data, community engagement, and stakeholder engagement. If a document refers to another guideline, the new source is identified and the previous step is repeated. Results: Ten documents were identified, which were analyzed for the themes mentioned above. Guidelines and best practices were identified, and then compared with the published documents about ethical, legal and social issues (ELSI) related to biomedical research in Egypt to reach best recommendations. Conclusions: We have proposed, by way of recommendations, key characteristics that a national ethics framework in Egypt could have. On informed consent, the practice of broad consent may be harmonized among biobanks in Egypt. Clear policies on return of research results, training requirements and availability of genetic counseling could also be instituted through the national framework. Additionally, such a framework should facilitate community and stakeholders engagement, which is important to secure trust and build consensus on contentious issues arising from sample and data sharing across borders and commercialization, among other concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Samir Abdelhafiz
- Department of Clinical pathology, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, 11796, Egypt
| | - Calvin W. L. Ho
- Faculty of Law, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Teck Chuan Voo
- Centre for Biomedical Ethics, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapor, Singapore., Singapore
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Research and Publication Ethics in Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol 2020; 5:jfmk5020042. [PMID: 33467258 PMCID: PMC7739350 DOI: 10.3390/jfmk5020042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Research is required to minimize uncertainty and to be reproducible, that is, the design, implementation, evaluation, interpretation, and reporting of the presented data, must follow a good practice. An appropriate experimental design, an accurate execution of the study, a strict criticism of the obtained data while avoiding overestimation, as well as a suitable interpretation of main outcomes, represent key aspects in reporting and disseminating research to the scientific community. Furthermore, author contribution, responsibility, funding, acknowledgement, and adequately declaring any conflict of interest play important roles in science. The Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology (JFMK), a member of the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE), is committed to the highest scientific and ethical standards and encourages all authors to take into account and to comply, as much as possible, with the contents and issues reported in this technical note. This could be useful to improve the quality of the manuscripts and avoid misconduct, as well as to stimulate interest and debate, reflecting upon uses and misuses within our disciplines belonging to the medicine area (sports medicine and movement sciences) categories: anatomy, histology, orthopedics and sports medicine, rheumatology, sports sciences, physical therapy, sports therapy, and rehabilitation.
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Beskow LM, Hammack-Aviran CM, Brelsford KM. Developing model biobanking consent language: what matters to prospective participants? BMC Med Res Methodol 2020; 20:119. [PMID: 32414333 PMCID: PMC7227271 DOI: 10.1186/s12874-020-01001-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Efforts to improve informed consent have led to calls for providing information a reasonable person would want to have, in a way that facilitates understanding of the reasons why one might or might not want to participate. At the same time, advances in large-scale genomic research have expanded both the opportunities and the risks for participants, families, and communities. To advance the use of effective consent materials that reflect this landscape, we used empirical data to develop model consent language, as well as brief questions to assist people in thinking about their own values relative to participation. METHODS We conducted in-person interviews to gather preliminary input on these materials from a diverse sample (n = 32) of the general population in Nashville, Tennessee. We asked them to highlight information they found especially reassuring or concerning, their hypothetical willingness to participate, and their opinions about the values questions. RESULTS Consent information most often highlighted as reassuring included the purpose of the biobank, the existence and composition of a multidisciplinary oversight committee, the importance of participants' privacy and efforts to protect it, and controlled access to a scientific database. Information most often highlighted as concerning included the deposition of data in a publicly accessible database, the risk of unintended access to data, the potential for non-research use of data, and use of medical record information in general. Seventy-five percent of participants indicated initial willingness to participate in the hypothetical biobank; this decreased to 66% as participants more closely considered the information over the course of the interview. A large majority rated the values questions as helpful. CONCLUSIONS These results are consistent with other research on public perspectives on biobanking and genomic cohort studies, suggesting that our model language effectively captures commonly expressed reasons for and against participation. Our study enriches this literature by connecting specific consent form disclosures with qualitative data regarding what participants found especially reassuring or concerning and why. Interventions that facilitate individuals' closer engagement with consent information may result in participation decisions more closely aligned with their values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura M Beskow
- Center for Biomedical Ethics and Society, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2525 West End Avenue, Suite 400, Nashville, TN, 37203, USA.
| | - Catherine M Hammack-Aviran
- Center for Biomedical Ethics and Society, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2525 West End Avenue, Suite 400, Nashville, TN, 37203, USA
| | - Kathleen M Brelsford
- Center for Biomedical Ethics and Society, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2525 West End Avenue, Suite 400, Nashville, TN, 37203, USA
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36
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Pacyna JE, McCormick JB, Olson JE, Winkler EM, Bublitz JT, Hathcock MA, Sharp RR. Assessing the stability of biobank donor preferences regarding sample use: evidence supporting the value of dynamic consent. Eur J Hum Genet 2020; 28:1168-1177. [PMID: 32327712 PMCID: PMC7608348 DOI: 10.1038/s41431-020-0625-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Dynamic consent has been proposed as a strategy for addressing the limitations of traditional, broad consent for biobank participation. Although the argument for dynamic consent has been made on theoretical grounds, empirical studies evaluating the potential utility of dynamic consent are needed to enhance deliberations about the merits of dynamic consent. Few studies have assessed such considerations as whether donor preferences may change over time or if participants would use a dynamic consent mechanism to modify preferences when they change. We administered a 66-item survey to participants in a large DNA biobank. The survey sought to gauge the stability of donor preferences specified at the time of biobank enrollment, specifically the stability of donors’ preference regarding posthumous availability of biospecimens to next-of-kin. We received 1164 completed surveys for a response rate of 72%. Forty percent of respondents indicated a preference regarding sample availability on the survey (T2) that was inconsistent with the preference they had expressed when they enrolled in the biobank (T1). Most (94%) individuals with inconsistent preferences regarding sample availability had initially restricted sample availability at T1 but were comfortable with broader availability when asked at the time of the survey (T2). Our findings demonstrate that preferences regarding sample use expressed at the time of enrollment in a DNA biobank may not be reliable indicators of donor preferences over time. These findings lend empirical support to the case for a dynamic consent model in which biobank participants are approached over time to clarify their views regarding sample use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel E Pacyna
- Biomedical Ethics Research Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Janet E Olson
- Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Erin M Winkler
- Center for Individualized Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Josh T Bublitz
- Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Richard R Sharp
- Biomedical Ethics Research Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA. .,Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
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37
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Barnes R, Votova K, Rahimzadeh V, Osman N, Penn AM, Zawati MH, Knoppers BM. Biobanking for Genomic and Personalized Health Research: Participant Perceptions and Preferences. Biopreserv Biobank 2020; 18:204-212. [PMID: 32302503 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2019.0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Biospecimens and associated data are invaluable tools in Genomics and Personalized Health (GAPH) research and can aid in the discovery of disease etiology and the development of therapeutics. Objective: To examine the experiences of patients invited to a particular GAPH study, Spectrometry in TIA Rapid Assessment (SpecTRA), and to explore broader biospecimen and data sharing preferences among a larger group of patients who had opted into a Permission to Contact for research program. Methods: An electronic survey was e-mailed to 515 participants. The survey was completed by 38% of participants, an unspecified number of whom were also SpecTRA participants. Results: Of those respondents who recalled participating in SpecTRA, 96% strongly agreed, agreed, or were neutral when asked if they received enough information to make an informed decision. Seventy-two percent agreed and 20% were neutral when asked if their study questions were addressed. Ninety-six percent of all respondents felt that SpecTRA's aim to develop a proteomic test for stroke was a worthwhile investment for health care, 98% said they were willing to provide a sample and/or information to facilitate the project's goals, and 96% to health research in general. Fifty-three percent of all participants suggested they would be comfortable sharing health information collected during SpecTRA with for-profit organizations, 87% with nonprofit organizations, and 38% said it matters to them where in the world their sample/information would be sent. Conclusions: Our results suggest that while there is room for improvement in providing adequate information to enable participants' understanding of the purpose of GAPH studies such as SpecTRA, patients are supportive of GAPH in general. Results also suggest that willingness to participate would likely be impacted by factors such as the study's commercial and national affiliations. This study indicates that further work is required to guide improvements on how the GAPH research community describes studies to potential participants, and to enable participation options that incorporate variable participant preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Barnes
- Department of Research and Capacity Building, Island Health, Victoria, Canada
| | - Kristine Votova
- Department of Research and Capacity Building, Island Health, Victoria, Canada.,Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
| | - Vasiliki Rahimzadeh
- Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Noura Osman
- Department of Research and Capacity Building, Island Health, Victoria, Canada.,Department of Neurosciences, Stroke Rapid Assessment Unit, Island Health, Victoria, Canada
| | - Andrew M Penn
- Department of Neurosciences, Stroke Rapid Assessment Unit, Island Health, Victoria, Canada
| | - Ma'n H Zawati
- Centre of Genomics and Policy, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
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Sobel ME, Dreyfus JC, Dillehay McKillip K, Kolarcik C, Muller WA, Scott MJ, Siegal GP, Wadosky K, O'Leary TJ. Return of Individual Research Results: A Guide for Biomedical Researchers Utilizing Human Biospecimens. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2020; 190:918-933. [PMID: 32201265 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2020.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The recent movement toward returning individual research results to study subjects/participants generates ethical and legal challenges for laboratories performing research on human biospecimens. The concept of an individual's interest in knowing the results of testing on their tissue is pitted against individual and systemic risks and an established legal framework regulating the performance of laboratory testing for medical care purposes. This article discusses the rationale for returning individual research results to subjects, the potential risks associated with returning these results, and the legal framework in the United States that governs testing of identifiable human biospecimens. On the basis of these considerations, this article provides recommendations for investigators to consider when planning and executing human biospecimen research, with the objective of appropriately balancing the interests of research subjects, the need for ensuring integrity of the research process, and compliance with US laws and regulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark E Sobel
- American Society for Investigative Pathology, Rockville, Maryland.
| | | | | | | | - William A Muller
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Melanie J Scott
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Gene P Siegal
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | | | - Timothy J O'Leary
- Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC; University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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Akinyemi RO, Jenkins C, Nichols M, Singh A, Wahab K, Akpalu A, Sarfo FS, Owolabi LF, Obiako R, Akinyemi J, Ojebuyi B, Adigun M, Musbahu R, Bello A, Titiloye M, Calys-Tagoe B, Ogunronbi M, Uvere E, Laryea R, Fakunle A, Adeleye O, Olorunsogbon O, Ojo A, Adesina D, Mensah N, Oguike W, Coleman N, Mande A, Uthman M, Kalaria RN, Jegede A, Owolabi M, Ovbiagele B, Arulogun O. Unraveling the Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications of Neurobiobanking and Stroke Genomic Research in Africa: A Study Protocol of the African Neurobiobank for Precision Stroke Medicine ELSI Project. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF QUALITATIVE METHODS 2020; 19:10.1177/1609406920923194. [PMID: 34276269 PMCID: PMC8284747 DOI: 10.1177/1609406920923194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) of emerging neurobiobanks and data resources are unclear in an African scientific landscape with unique cultural, linguistic, and belief systems. The overarching goal of the African Neurobiobank for Precision Stroke Medicine-ELSI Project is to identify, examine, and develop novel approaches to address ELSI issues of biobanking and stroke genomic research in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). To accomplish the goal we will (1) explore knowledge, attitude, perceptions, barriers, and facilitators influencing ELSI issues related to biobanking and stroke genomic research; (2) use information obtained to craft a community intervention program focused on ELSI issues; and (3) build capacity and careers related to genomics and biobanking for effective client/community engagement while enhancing regulatory, governance, and implementation competences in biobanking science in SSA. A community-based participatory research and mixed-methodological approach, focused on various levels of the social ecological model, will be used to identify and examine relevant ELSI issues. Contextual intervention tools, platforms, and practices will be developed to enhance community understanding and participation in stroke biobanking and genomics research activities while facilitating enduring trust, and equitable and fair utilization of biobanking resources for genetic and trans-omics research. A concurrent capacity building program related to genetic counseling and biobanking will be implemented for early career researchers. The huge potential for neurobiobanking and genomics research in Africa to advance precision medicine applicable to stroke and other neurological disorders requires addressing ELSI challenges while building sustainable research, career, and regulatory capacities in trans-omics and biobanking science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rufus O. Akinyemi
- Neuroscience and Ageing Research Unit, Institute for Advanced Medical Research and Training, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
- Centre for Genomic and Precision Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Carolyn Jenkins
- College of Nursing, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Michelle Nichols
- College of Nursing, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Arti Singh
- KNUST Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Kolawole Wahab
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, University of Ilorin, Nigeria
| | - Albert Akpalu
- University of Ghana Medical School, College of Health Sciences, Accra, Ghana
| | - Fred S. Sarfo
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Lukman F. Owolabi
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Bayero University, Nigeria
| | - Reginald Obiako
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Shika, Zaria, Nigeria
| | - Joshua Akinyemi
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Babatunde Ojebuyi
- Department of Communication and Language Arts, Faculty of Arts, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | | | - Rabiu Musbahu
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Bayero University, Nigeria
- Murtala Mohammed Specialist Hospital, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Abiodun Bello
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, University of Ilorin, Nigeria
| | - Musibau Titiloye
- Department of Health Promotion and Education, Faculty of Public Health, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | | | - Mayowa Ogunronbi
- Neuroscience and Ageing Research Unit, Institute for Advanced Medical Research and Training, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, Nigeria
| | - Ezinne Uvere
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Ruth Laryea
- University of Ghana Medical School, College of Health Sciences, Accra, Ghana
| | - Adekunle Fakunle
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Osi Adeleye
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, Nigeria
| | - Olorunyomi Olorunsogbon
- Neuroscience and Ageing Research Unit, Institute for Advanced Medical Research and Training, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Adebayo Ojo
- Neuroscience and Ageing Research Unit, Institute for Advanced Medical Research and Training, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Deborah Adesina
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, Nigeria
| | - Nathaniel Mensah
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Wisdom Oguike
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Shika, Zaria, Nigeria
| | - Nathaniel Coleman
- University of Ghana Medical School, College of Health Sciences, Accra, Ghana
| | - Aliyu Mande
- Neurology Unit, Department of Medicine, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Bayero University, Nigeria
| | - Muhammed Uthman
- Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, University of Ilorin, Nigeria
| | - Rajesh N. Kalaria
- Neuroscience and Ageing Research Unit, Institute for Advanced Medical Research and Training, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
- Neurovascular Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Ayodele Jegede
- Department of Sociology, Faculty of the Social Sciences, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Mayowa Owolabi
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
- Centre for Genomic and Precision Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Bruce Ovbiagele
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Oyedunni Arulogun
- Department of Health Promotion and Education, Faculty of Public Health, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
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Jahns R, Geiger J, Schlünder I, Strech D, Brumhard M, von Kielmansegg SG. Broad donor consent for human biobanks in Germany and Europe: a strategy to facilitate cross-border sharing and exchange of human biological materials and related data. J LAB MED 2019. [DOI: 10.1515/labmed-2017-0064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Human biobanks are generally recognized as essential resources for effective biomedical research. All over the world biosamples and data from human subjects are collected in large biobanks. The biological material is stored long term for current and future (undetermined) research issues, which often require cross-border exchange of biosamples and related data.
Content
Commonly, the informed consent for research on human biospecimen is intended to cover only defined, specific research objectives. In June 2016, the biobank Task-Force of the Working Party of the German Medical Ethics Committees (WP-GMEC) updated its template for the broad use of human biological samples and related data. It complies with the current Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and World Medical Association (WMA) recommendations and furnishes a framework that permits long-term storage and multi-purpose research use of human biological material and related data, including cross-border research.
However, both (i) human biobanks storing and (ii) research projects requesting “broad consent” biological samples generally require an ethical approval; in addition, “broad consent” conditions should be reciprocated by making biobank processes transparent and by fostering both donor and public involvement.
Outlook
The broad consent template of the WP-GMEC clearly states that biological samples and data donated for medical research serve to address current and future research questions. It appears perfectly suited as a template for a Europe-wide harmonized broad consent facilitating biobank-based cross-border research.
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Pokrovskaya MS, Sivakova OV, Efimova IA, Meshkov AN, Metelskaya VA, Shalnova SA, Drapkina OM. Biobanking as a necessary tool for research in the field of personalized medicine in the scientific medical center. Per Med 2019; 16:501-509. [DOI: 10.2217/pme-2019-0049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The National Medical Research Center for Preventive Medicine of Russia (NMRCPM) conducts epidemiological and clinical research for the development of personalized medicine. This is why NMRCPM has faced the problem of how to standardize preanalytical conditions for all biospecimens from various scientific projects and of how to provide long-term responsible standardized regulated safe storage of blood and its derivatives. This article describes various aspects of establishing a biobank in a large medical center dedicated to integrating the biomarkers research activities of different departments. To date, >205,000 serum/plasma/whole blood specimens have been stored. Collaboration with >25 scientific projects as well as the biobank’s own research project has been organized. The availability of this biobank became a platform for the establishment of the Personalized Medicine Center in NMRCPM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Sergeevna Pokrovskaya
- Federal State Institution National Research Center for Preventive Medicine, Petroverigskii lane, 10/3, Moscow, Russia, 101990
| | - Oksana Victorovna Sivakova
- Federal State Institution National Research Center for Preventive Medicine, Petroverigskii lane, 10/3, Moscow, Russia, 101990
| | - Irina Aleksandrovna Efimova
- Federal State Institution National Research Center for Preventive Medicine, Petroverigskii lane, 10/3, Moscow, Russia, 101990
| | - Aleksey Nikolaevich Meshkov
- Federal State Institution National Research Center for Preventive Medicine, Petroverigskii lane, 10/3, Moscow, Russia, 101990
| | - Victoria Alekseevna Metelskaya
- Federal State Institution National Research Center for Preventive Medicine, Petroverigskii lane, 10/3, Moscow, Russia, 101990
| | - Svetlana Anatolievna Shalnova
- Federal State Institution National Research Center for Preventive Medicine, Petroverigskii lane, 10/3, Moscow, Russia, 101990
| | - Oxana Mikhailovna Drapkina
- Federal State Institution National Research Center for Preventive Medicine, Petroverigskii lane, 10/3, Moscow, Russia, 101990
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Linsen L, Vanhees K, Vanoppen E, Ulenaers K, Driessens S, Penders J, Somers V, Stinissen P, Rummens JL. Raising to the Challenge: Building a Federated Biobank to Accelerate Translational Research-The University Biobank Limburg. Front Med (Lausanne) 2019; 6:224. [PMID: 31750305 PMCID: PMC6842921 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2019.00224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Irreproducibility of research results is one of the major contributing factors to the failure of translating basic research results into tangible bedside progress. To address this, the University Biobank Limburg (UBiLim) was founded by a collaboration between Hasselt University, the Hospital East-Limburg, and the Jessa Hospital. This paper describes the evolution of this process and the barriers encountered on the way. UBiLim evolved from an archival collection over a single-site biobank into a federated structure, supporting translational research at the founding institutions. Currently, UBiLim is a federated biobank, with an established organizational structure and processing, and storage facilities at each of the three sites. All activities are integrated in an ISO15189-accredited Quality Management System and based on (inter)national biobank guidelines. Common methods for processing and storage of a plethora of sample types, suitable for state-of-the-art applications, were validated and implemented. Because the biobank is embedded in two hospitals, the request of researchers to include certain sample types or enroll specific patient groups can quickly be met. Funding has been a major challenge in each step of its evolution and remains the biggest issue for long-term biobank sustainability. To a lesser extent, the Belgian legislation and the operational cost of information management system are also concerns for smooth biobank operations. Nonetheless, UBiLim serves as a facilitator and accelerator for translational research in the Limburg area of Belgium that, given the fields of research, may have an impact on international patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loes Linsen
- University Biobank Limburg (UBiLim), Hasselt, Belgium.,Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Limburg Clinical Research Center, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.,Clinical Laboratory, Jessa Hospital, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Kimberly Vanhees
- University Biobank Limburg (UBiLim), Hasselt, Belgium.,Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Limburg Clinical Research Center, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.,Clinical Laboratory, Jessa Hospital, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Evi Vanoppen
- University Biobank Limburg (UBiLim), Hasselt, Belgium.,Clinical Laboratory, Jessa Hospital, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Kim Ulenaers
- University Biobank Limburg (UBiLim), Hasselt, Belgium.,Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Suzanne Driessens
- University Biobank Limburg (UBiLim), Hasselt, Belgium.,Clinical Laboratory, Hospital East-Limburg (ZOL), Genk, Belgium
| | - Joris Penders
- University Biobank Limburg (UBiLim), Hasselt, Belgium.,Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Limburg Clinical Research Center, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.,Clinical Laboratory, Hospital East-Limburg (ZOL), Genk, Belgium
| | - Veerle Somers
- University Biobank Limburg (UBiLim), Hasselt, Belgium.,Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Piet Stinissen
- University Biobank Limburg (UBiLim), Hasselt, Belgium.,Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Biomedical Research Institute, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Jean-Luc Rummens
- University Biobank Limburg (UBiLim), Hasselt, Belgium.,Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Limburg Clinical Research Center, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.,Clinical Laboratory, Jessa Hospital, Hasselt, Belgium
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Kinkorová J, Topolčan O, Kučera R. Informed Consent in the Newly Established Biobank. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16203943. [PMID: 31623267 PMCID: PMC6843661 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16203943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Informed consent is an important document for every existing biobank or repository to obtain, store and use human biospecimens and associated data and information for current and future research. Biobanks have undergone great progress worldwide during the last three decades and have become an integral part of personalized medicine and health care systems and due to new scientific and social questions to be solved. Ethical, legal and social issues (ELSI) guarantee safe sample and data management, and informed consent is one of the key ELSI documents. The form and the consent given in biobank informed consent forms differs between biobank-related institutions, national biobanks, between EU states, and to find the optimal informed consent requires one to fulfil national and international laws and regulations. The Biobank in Pilsen, Czech Republic was officially opened on April the 20th 2017 as a hospital-integrated biobank, and the informed consent was one of the essential documents that had to be ready prior the opening. The process of formulating informed consent corresponding with institutional, national, and international rules and laws to share the experience, to present the challenges, and to demonstrate the national dissimilarity are tasks of the article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judita Kinkorová
- Laboratory of Immunoanalysis, University Hospital in Pilsen, E. Beneše 13, 30599 Pilsen, Czech Republic.
| | - Ondřej Topolčan
- Laboratory of Immunoanalysis, University Hospital in Pilsen, E. Beneše 13, 30599 Pilsen, Czech Republic.
| | - Radek Kučera
- Laboratory of Immunoanalysis, University Hospital in Pilsen, E. Beneše 13, 30599 Pilsen, Czech Republic.
- Department of Medical Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Karlovarská 48, 30166 Pilsen, Czech Republic.
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Boonen K, Hens K, Menschaert G, Baggerman G, Valkenborg D, Ertaylan G. Beyond Genes: Re-Identifiability of Proteomic Data and Its Implications for Personalized Medicine. Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:E682. [PMID: 31492022 PMCID: PMC6770961 DOI: 10.3390/genes10090682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Revised: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing availability of high throughput proteomics data provides us with opportunities as well as posing new ethical challenges regarding data privacy and re-identifiability of participants. Moreover, the fact that proteomics represents a level between the genotype and the phenotype further exacerbates the situation, introducing dilemmas related to publicly available data, anonymization, ownership of information and incidental findings. In this paper, we try to differentiate proteomics from genomics data and cover the ethical challenges related to proteomics data sharing. Finally, we give an overview of the proposed solutions and the outlook for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt Boonen
- VITO Health, Boeretang 200, Mol 2400, Belgium.
- Centre for Proteomics, University of Antwerpen, Antwerp 2020, Belgium.
| | - Kristien Hens
- Department of Philosophy, University of Antwerp, Antwerp 2000 & Institute of Philosophy, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium.
| | - Gerben Menschaert
- Biobix, Department of Data Analysis and Mathematical Modelling, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium.
| | - Geert Baggerman
- VITO Health, Boeretang 200, Mol 2400, Belgium.
- Centre for Proteomics, University of Antwerpen, Antwerp 2020, Belgium.
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Savatt J, Pisieczko CJ, Zhang Y, Lee MTM, Faucett WA, Williams JL. Biobanks in the Era of Genomic Data. CURRENT GENETIC MEDICINE REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s40142-019-00171-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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46
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Lin JC, Hsiao WWW, Fan CT. Managing "incidental findings" in biobank research: Recommendations of the Taiwan biobank. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2019; 17:1135-1142. [PMID: 31462969 PMCID: PMC6709371 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2019.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Revised: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In this article, incidental findings (IF) refer to unforeseen findings made possible through biobanking research and advances in medical diagnostic technologies that raise issues regarding the obligation and/or responsibility of biobank-users and biobanks to return clinically significant information to participants. The World Medical Association (WMA) Declaration of Taipei (2016) highlights the possibility of encountering IF and requires that research on biospecimens address biobank feedback policies in their informed consent process, leaving open the possibility that the policy may be "no return". As clinicians and researchers begin to use these "resources", the possibility of finding clinically significant IF is becoming a reality. DISCUSSION In line with the WMA's Declaration of Taipei, a pragmatic approach is needed to deal with the issue of returning IF in biobank governance. Indeed, the impacts and concerns associated with the return of IF differ across different stakeholder groups and jurisdictions. Therefore, the framework governing IF return needs to be custom-built, taking into account the nature of each research project and the unique features of biobanks. To this end, in addition to facilitating biobank transparency, establishing an endurable and horizontal connection among biobanks and clinical institutions under a public health system will improve efficiency and effectiveness. Hence, subject to contemporary Taiwanese ethical and/or legal regulations, this article argues for the establishment of an updated framework for imaging-related and genetic-related IF return within the Taiwan Biobank (TWB), mainly based on a limited obligation to disclose life-threatening information revealed by imaging, but not genetic, information. SUMMARY After discussing some of the ethical, legal and social issues encountered by the TWB and accounting for the experiences of other international biobanks, we propose a systematic framework for returning IF, mainly on a "limited obligation" basis, which offers better and more comprehensive protection for biobank-participants' rights and health.
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Key Words
- Biobanks
- Bioethics
- EGF, Ethical Governance Framework
- ELSI, Ethical, Legal and Social Implications
- ESC, European Society of Cardiology
- Framework
- GNC, German National Cohort
- GP, General Practitioners
- IF, Incidental Findings
- IRBs, Institutional Review Boards
- Incidental finding
- MRI, Magnetic Resonance Imaging
- NHI, National Health Insurance
- NIH, National Institutes of Health
- P3G, Public Population Project in Genomics and Society
- TWB, Taiwan Biobank
- The WMA Declaration of Taipei (2016)
- UNESCO, United Nations Education Scientific and Cultural Organization
- WMA, World Medical Association
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Affiliation(s)
- Jui-Chu Lin
- College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Law & Technology Innovation Center, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Ethical, Legal and Social Implications (ELSI) of the Taiwan Biobank, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Wesley Wei-Wen Hsiao
- Law & Technology Innovation Center, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chien-Te Fan
- Institute of Law for Science and Technology, National Tsing Hua University, Hsin-Chu, Taiwan, ROC
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Mosavel M, Barker KL, Gardiner HM, Siminoff LA. Responsiveness and adaptability in community engaged biobanking research: experiences from a Hispanic community. J Community Genet 2019; 10:395-406. [PMID: 30610570 PMCID: PMC6591347 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-018-0397-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The success of biobanking research relies on the willingness of the public to provide biological and sociological information, donate tissue samples, and complete psychosocial questionnaires. Medical advances made through biobanking research have limited reach if tissues are not obtained from a diverse sample of individuals. Within, we describe the process of transitioning a small group of Hispanic community members who met regularly into a more formal Hispanic Community Advisory Board (HCAB) for the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) project. The sole purpose of the HCAB was to provide input and feedback on GTEx and, specifically, how researchers can best address the concerns of the Hispanic community related to tissue donation. This initial purpose was adapted to be responsive to the HCAB's request to include educating others in the Hispanic community who were not a part of the advisory board about genomic biobanking. While HCAB members' knowledge of biobanking was limited, a strong need for culturally tailored information about the impact of biobanking medical discoveries and their potential benefit to the Hispanic community was expressed. The HCAB's feedback guided revisions to GTEx study documents to specifically address concerns about language use, clarity, and context including the need for consent forms to address cultural concerns and fears. HCAB members also collaborated on the development of a walk-through exhibition which provided a visual, narrative-based explanation of GTEx and the process of tissue donation for research and biobanking purposes. The HCAB demonstrated the value of including community participation in scientific research projects, for both scientists and lay communities, and underscored the importance of developing community engagement approaches that are adaptable and responsive to community needs. Our experience with the HCAB serves as exemplar for a unique paradigm of community inclusiveness and education in research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maghboeba Mosavel
- Department of Health Behavior and Policy, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, 830 East Main Street, One Capitol Square, 4th floor, Richmond, VA 23219 USA
| | - K. Laura Barker
- College of Public Health, Temple University, 1700 N. Broad Street, Suite 417, Philadelphia, PA 19121 USA
| | - Heather M. Gardiner
- Department of Public Health, College of Public Health, Temple University, 1301 Cecil B. Moore Ave., Ritter Annex, 9th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19122 USA
| | - Laura A. Siminoff
- College of Public Health (286-00), Bell Building (TECH CENTER), 1101 Montgomery Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19122 USA
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Khabour OF, Abu-Siniyeh A. Challenges that face the establishment of diabetes biobank in Jordan: a qualitative analysis of an online discussion forum. J Multidiscip Healthc 2019; 12:229-234. [PMID: 31114216 PMCID: PMC6489903 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s194161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Diabetes is common in Jordan with a prevalence of about 13% of the population. Establishment of a diabetes biobank in Jordan could have an enormous impact on the management and prevention of the disease. Methods: In the current study, ethical challenges that might face the establishment of a biobank were examined by 28 researchers from the Middle East and North Africa region using an online discussion forum. Results: All participants agreed on the importance of the establishment of a diabetes biobank in Jordan. The possible challenges that were discussed included confidentiality and privacy, informed consent, specimen ownership and participants’ rights, data sharing, returning of research results and incidental findings, lack of legislations, and importance of social awareness and public engagements with biobanks. Conclusion: In conclusion, participants support the establishment of a diabetes biobank in Jordan; however, some ethical issues should be considered to ensure the success of the biobank.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar F Khabour
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Ahmed Abu-Siniyeh
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan.,Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Science, Al-Balqa' Applied University, As Salt, Jordan.,Clinical Laboratory Sciences Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Hill
- 1 Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia.,2 Chair, ISBER Education and Training Committee
| | - Zisis Kozlakidis
- 3 International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), World Health Organization (WHO), Lyon, France.,4 Chair, ISBER Nominating Committee
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Müller A, Hovanec J, Josephs B, Wiethege T, Brüning T, Behrens T. A Two-Level Biobank Data Protection Concept for Project-Driven Human Sample Collections. Biopreserv Biobank 2019; 17:312-318. [PMID: 30882231 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2018.0112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Legal and ethical demands for more transparent and strict data protection measures to enhance research participant privacy have grown with an increasing number of human biobanks providing biomaterial collections long term for unspecified future research questions. The design of a data protection scheme that minimizes the risk of donor reidentification and promotes biomaterial and data use in research is a big challenge to all kinds of human biobanks. Yet, there is a lack of publications which address this basic building block of a biobank. In this study, we present the data protection concept of our project driven, stand-alone biobank, focusing on meeting two biomaterial and data management areas simultaneously: operation of primary research projects involved in sample collection and long-term provision of biomaterial for future research purposes. The concept is based on national and international laws and ethical demands. Since the presented measures are transparent and basic, they should encourage biobanks in defining their own data protection concept and be easily transferable to different legal requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antje Müller
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Jan Hovanec
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Berthold Josephs
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Thorsten Wiethege
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Thomas Brüning
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
| | - Thomas Behrens
- Institute for Prevention and Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance, Institute of the Ruhr University Bochum (IPA), Bochum, Germany
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