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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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Argudo-Portal V, Domènech M. The reconfiguration of biobanks in Europe under the BBMRI-ERIC framework: towards global sharing nodes? LIFE SCIENCES, SOCIETY AND POLICY 2020; 16:9. [PMID: 33000342 PMCID: PMC7528224 DOI: 10.1186/s40504-020-00105-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Freezers with biospecimen deposits became biobanks and later were networked at the pan-European level in 2013 under the Biobanking and BioMolecular Resources Research Infrastructure-European Research Infrastructure Consortium (BBMRI-ERIC). Drawing on document analysis about the BBMRI-ERIC and multi-sited fieldwork with biobankers in Spain from a science and technology studies approach, we explore what biobanks are expected to do and become under the BBMRI-ERIC framework, and how infrastructural transitions promote particular transformations in biobanking practices. The primary purpose of biobanks in Europe is presented as being to become mediators in contemporary biomedical research (global sharing nodes) distribution, and distributed nodes of samples and their associated data. We argue that infrastructural transitions are complicated and heterogeneous, giving rise to unattended local concerns on adjusting their practices to fit into the BBMRI-ERIC framework, even for non-members, as the case of Spain illustrates, where "old practices" of collection and storage are questioned. In this article, we aim to encourage qualitative studies to explore the lags between pan-European policies and prospects, different contextual interpretations, and biobanking reconfigurations as an opportunity to explore what that lag is made of (e.g. tensions with "old practices," unresolved conflicts with the national agendas, reservations on a possible centralization of the biobanking practices by regional biobanks, lack of funding, etc.). Such research could enrich not only policy guidance, but also the understanding of technoscientific infrastructures' scalability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Violeta Argudo-Portal
- Barcelona Science and Technology Studies Group (STS-b). Department of Social Psychology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Campus de la UAB. Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), 08193, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Miquel Domènech
- Barcelona Science and Technology Studies Group (STS-b). Department of Social Psychology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Campus de la UAB. Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), 08193, Barcelona, Spain
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Patil S, Majumdar B, Awan KH, Sarode GS, Sarode SC, Gadbail AR, Gondivkar S. Cancer oriented biobanks: A comprehensive review. Oncol Rev 2018; 12:357. [PMID: 30057691 PMCID: PMC6047884 DOI: 10.4081/oncol.2018.357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Biobanks provide a platform for innovative biomedical research and has improvised translational and personalized medicine to a great extent. Time 2009 published 10 ideas changing the world right now with biobanks on the list emphasizing its role in discovery and development of new therapeutic drugs. They form the cornerstone, providing resources for future investigations and biomarker discovery to understand the effects of genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors on human morbidity, mortality and health. The aim of this review paper is to understand the role of biobanking in cancer research, the challenges faced and strategies to overcome these, for long term and sustainable research in the field of oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shankargouda Patil
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Diagnostic Sciences, Division of Oral Pathology, College of Dentistry, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Barnali Majumdar
- Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, Bhojia Dental College & Hospital, Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Kamran Habib Awan
- College of Dental Medicine, Roseman University of Health Sciences, South Jordan, UT, USA
| | - Gargi S Sarode
- Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, Dr. D. Y. Patil Dental College and Hospital, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sachin C Sarode
- Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, Dr. D. Y. Patil Dental College and Hospital, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Maharashtra, India
| | - Amol R Gadbail
- Department of Dentistry, Indira Gandhi Government Medical College, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
| | - Shailesh Gondivkar
- Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Government Dental College & Hospital, Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
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Siu LL, Lawler M, Haussler D, Knoppers BM, Lewin J, Vis DJ, Liao RG, Andre F, Banks I, Barrett JC, Caldas C, Camargo AA, Fitzgerald RC, Mao M, Mattison JE, Pao W, Sellers WR, Sullivan P, Teh BT, Ward R, ZenKlusen JC, Sawyers CL, Voest EE. Facilitating a culture of responsible and effective sharing of cancer genome data. Nat Med 2016; 22:464-71. [PMID: 27149219 PMCID: PMC4995884 DOI: 10.1038/nm.4089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2015] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Rapid and affordable tumor molecular profiling has led to an explosion of clinical and genomic data poised to enhance the diagnosis, prognostication and treatment of cancer. A critical point has now been reached at which the analysis and storage of annotated clinical and genomic information in unconnected silos will stall the advancement of precision cancer care. Information systems must be harmonized to overcome the multiple technical and logistical barriers to data sharing. Against this backdrop, the Global Alliance for Genomic Health (GA4GH) was established in 2013 to create a common framework that enables responsible, voluntary and secure sharing of clinical and genomic data. This Perspective from the GA4GH Clinical Working Group Cancer Task Team highlights the data-aggregation challenges faced by the field, suggests potential collaborative solutions and describes how GA4GH can catalyze a harmonized data-sharing culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lillian L. Siu
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Mark Lawler
- Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, Queen’s University, Belfast, UK
| | - David Haussler
- UC Santa Cruz Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
| | | | - Jeremy Lewin
- Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Daniel J. Vis
- The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rachel G. Liao
- The Global Alliance for Genomics and Health, Toronto, Canada and the Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Fabrice Andre
- Gustave Roussy and Université Paris Sud, Villejuif, France
| | - Ian Banks
- Patient’s Advocacy Committee, European Cancer Organization, Brussels, Belgium
| | - J. Carl Barrett
- Translational Sciences, Oncology iMED, AstraZeneca, Waltham, MA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Mao Mao
- Yonsei Cancer Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | | | - William Pao
- Roche Innovation Center Basel, Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Patrick Sullivan
- Advocacy for Canadian Children Oncology Network, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - Robyn Ward
- University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia
| | - Jean Claude ZenKlusen
- The Cancer Genome Atlas, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | | | - Emile E. Voest
- The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Bryant J, Sanson-Fisher R, Fradgley E, Regan T, Hobden B, Ackland SP. Oncology patients overwhelmingly support tissue banking. BMC Cancer 2015; 15:413. [PMID: 25981796 PMCID: PMC4438453 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-015-1416-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2014] [Accepted: 05/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Translational biomedical research relies on the availability of human tissue to explore disease aetiology and prognostic factors, with the objective of developing better targeted treatments. The establishment of biobanks poses ongoing ethical considerations in relation to donors. This is a quantitative study exploring medical oncology patients’ preferences for contributing to tissue biobanks. Methods The objectives of this study were to explore oncology patients’ preferences about tissue banking, including: 1) willingness to donate; 2) factors influencing donation decisions; 3) preferences about the use of donated tissue including permission systems, data linkage, and communication about research findings to donors. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in two tertiary oncology outpatient clinics. Eligible patients were approached by volunteers to complete a touchscreen survey in waiting rooms or while receiving intravenous therapy. Consenting participants completed demographic questions and received up to 12 previously validated items exploring preferences for donating tissue. Results 224 oncology outpatients participated over a ten month period (69.1 % consent rate; 64.4 % completion rate). Most participants were female (54 %), were a mean age of 62 years, and diagnosed with breast (26 %) and bowel (20 %) cancer. Most participants indicated willingness to donate tissue (84 %) and for their sample to be stored for future use (96 %). Participants preferred a blanket consent approach (71 %), samples to be linked to medical records (62 %) and for general results of the research (79 %) to be provided to them. Factors influencing willingness to donate tissue included personal (85 %) or familial health benefits (88 %) and a sense of duty to future patients (82 %). Conclusions The overwhelming majority of oncology patients are willing to participate in a tissue bank, providing some support to explore ‘opt-out’ models of consent. To enhance patient acceptability, tissue banking programs should: (i) consider allowing blanket informed consent as well as opt-in models of consent; (ii) develop protocols allowing feedback of information about samples in line with patient preferences; (iii) provide clear information to potential donors about the benefits arising from donation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Bryant
- Health Behaviour Research Group, Priority Research Centre for Health Behaviour, University of Newcastle & Hunter Medical Research Institute, HMRI Building, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Rob Sanson-Fisher
- Health Behaviour Research Group, Priority Research Centre for Health Behaviour, University of Newcastle & Hunter Medical Research Institute, HMRI Building, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Elizabeth Fradgley
- Health Behaviour Research Group, Priority Research Centre for Health Behaviour, University of Newcastle & Hunter Medical Research Institute, HMRI Building, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Timothy Regan
- Health Behaviour Research Group, Priority Research Centre for Health Behaviour, University of Newcastle & Hunter Medical Research Institute, HMRI Building, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Breanne Hobden
- Health Behaviour Research Group, Priority Research Centre for Health Behaviour, University of Newcastle & Hunter Medical Research Institute, HMRI Building, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Stephen P Ackland
- Hunter Cancer Research Alliance, Hunter Cancer Biobank, Hunter Medical Research Institute, University of Newcastle and Calvary Mater Newcastle Hospital, Waratah, NSW, 2298, Australia.
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Kaye J. The Tension Between Data Sharing and the Protection of Privacy in Genomics Research. ETHICS, LAW AND GOVERNANCE OF BIOBANKING 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/978-94-017-9573-9_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Tallacchini M. A Participatory Space Beyond the “Autonomy Versus Property” Dichotomy. ETHICS, LAW AND GOVERNANCE OF BIOBANKING 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/978-94-017-9573-9_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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Togni E, Dierickx K, Porteri C. Participation in biobanks for research by incapacitated adults: review and discussion of current guidelines. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2014; 29:670-81. [PMID: 24338764 DOI: 10.1002/gps.4059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2013] [Accepted: 11/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Biobanks for research and genetic research are important opportunities to create new understanding of complex disorders, such as psychiatric disorders and dementia. The management of biobanks for subjects with psychiatric disorders or dementia raises additional challenges because of the ethical issues regarding the potentially impaired decision-making capacities of the subjects. The aim of this paper is to study (i) how guidelines address the matter and (ii) how they can be implemented in real research situations with patients suffering from psychiatric disorders and dementia. METHOD We collected and analysed all the relevant guidelines and position papers from national and international organizations dealing with research on biological materials and selected documents mentioning the participation of incapacitated adults in genetic research and biobanks. RESULTS Eighteen of the 30 analysed documents contain explicit references to adults who are unable to give consent. The main topics addressed by the guidelines are the following: (i) informed consent; (ii) principles of non-therapeutic research; and (iii) ethics committee review. CONCLUSIONS In biomedical research, guidelines are an important instrument for facilitating research while promoting subjects' rights and well-being. Compared with legally binding documents, guidelines are more flexible and can be more easily revised according to evolving research situations and for adaptation to real persons and research settings. We suggest measures to implement the analysed guidelines taking into consideration the case for the participation of patients with neuropsychiatric disorders, who can have impairment of decision-making capacities without being obviously incompetent, in genetic research and biobanks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Togni
- Bioethics Unit, IRCCS San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
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Porteri C, Togni E, Pasqualetti P. The policies of ethics committees in the management of biobanks used for research: an Italian survey. Eur J Hum Genet 2014; 22:260-5. [PMID: 23695284 PMCID: PMC3895627 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2013.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2012] [Revised: 04/03/2013] [Accepted: 04/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Gaps in regulations pertaining to the collection and storage of biological materials in a biobank, at least in the European context, have made the writing of local guidelines essential from an ethical point of view. Nevertheless, until recently, the elaboration of local guidelines for the collection, use and storage of biological materials in a biobank has been the exception in Italy and all European countries. In this context, it is of value to know the policies, even if they are unwritten, of local ethics committees (ECs) engaged in the evaluation of research protocols involving biobanks and biological materials. This paper presents the results of a survey carried out among local Italian ECs (229) to document their attitudes and policies regarding the management of the ethical issues related to biobanks and the use of biological materials. A questionnaire was developed to investigate the areas regarded as critical from an ethical-legal point of view: informed consent and information to the subjects; protection of confidentiality; communication of research results; access/transfer of biological materials and related data; ownership of samples and data and intellectual property rights; and subjects' remuneration and benefit sharing. Twenty-six ECs from the Italian Institutes for Research and Care (62%) and 26 other ECs (14%) participated in the survey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinna Porteri
- Bioethics Unit, IRCCS San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Elena Togni
- Bioethics Unit, IRCCS San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Patrizio Pasqualetti
- SeSMIT- Medical Statistics and Information Technology, AFaR – Associazione Fatebenefratelli per la Ricerca, Rome, Italy
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Developing translational research infrastructure and capabilities associated with cancer clinical trials. Expert Rev Mol Med 2013; 15:e11. [PMID: 24074187 DOI: 10.1017/erm.2013.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The integration of molecular information in clinical decision making is becoming a reality. These changes are shaping the way clinical research is conducted, and as reality sets in, the challenges in conducting, managing and organising multi-disciplinary research become apparent. Clinical trials provide a platform to conduct translational research (TR) within the context of high quality clinical data accrual. Integrating TR objectives in trials allows the execution of pivotal studies that provide clinical evidence for biomarker-driven treatment strategies, targeting early drug development trials to a homogeneous and well defined patient population, supports the development of companion diagnostics and provides an opportunity for deepening our understanding of cancer biology and mechanisms of drug action. To achieve these goals within a clinical trial, developing translational research infrastructure and capabilities (TRIC) plays a critical catalytic role for translating preclinical data into successful clinical research and development. TRIC represents a technical platform, dedicated resources and access to expertise promoting high quality standards, logistical and operational support and unified streamlined procedures under an appropriate governance framework. TRIC promotes integration of multiple disciplines including biobanking, laboratory analysis, molecular data, informatics, statistical analysis and dissemination of results which are all required for successful TR projects and scientific progress. Such a supporting infrastructure is absolutely essential in order to promote high quality robust research, avoid duplication and coordinate resources. Lack of such infrastructure, we would argue, is one reason for the limited effect of TR in clinical practice beyond clinical trials.
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Kaye J. The tension between data sharing and the protection of privacy in genomics research. Annu Rev Genomics Hum Genet 2012; 13:415-31. [PMID: 22404490 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-genom-082410-101454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Next-generation sequencing and global data sharing challenge many of the governance mechanisms currently in place to protect the privacy of research participants. These challenges will make it more difficult to guarantee anonymity for participants, provide information to satisfy the requirements of informed consent, and ensure complete withdrawal from research when requested. To move forward, we need to improve the current governance systems for research so that they are responsive to individual privacy concerns but can also be effective at a global level. We need to develop a system of e-governance that can complement existing governance systems but that places greater reliance on the use of technology to ensure compliance with ethical and legal requirements. These new governance structures must be able to address the concerns of research participants while at the same time ensuring effective data sharing that promotes public trust in genomics research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Kaye
- HeLEX, Department of Public Health, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LF, UK.
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Budimir D, Polasek O, Marusić A, Kolcić I, Zemunik T, Boraska V, Jeroncić A, Boban M, Campbell H, Rudan I. Ethical aspects of human biobanks: a systematic review. Croat Med J 2012; 52:262-79. [PMID: 21674823 PMCID: PMC3118708 DOI: 10.3325/cmj.2011.52.262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim To systematically assess the existing literature on ethical aspects of human biobanks. Method We searched the Web of Science and PubMed databases to find studies addressing ethical problems in biobanks with no limits set (study design, study population, time period, or language of publication). All identified articles published until November 2010 were included. We analyzed the type of published articles, journals publishing them, involvement of countries/institutions, year of publication, and citations received, and qualitatively assessed every article in order to identify ethical issues addressed by the majority of published research on human biobanking. Results Hundred and fifty four studies satisfied our review criteria. The studies mainly came from highly developed countries and were all published in the last two decades, with over half of them published in 2009 or 2010. They most commonly discussed the informed consent, privacy and identifiability, return of results to participants, importance of public trust, involvement of children, commercialization, the role of ethics boards, international data exchange, ownership of samples, and benefit sharing. Conclusions The focus on ethical aspects is strongly present through the whole biobanking research field. Although there is a consensus on the old and most typical ethical issues, with further development of the field and increasingly complex structure of human biobanks, these issues will likely continue to arise and accumulate, hence requiring constant re-appraisal and continuing discussion.
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Cleeren E, Van der Heyden J, Brand A, Van Oyen H. Public health in the genomic era: will Public Health Genomics contribute to major changes in the prevention of common diseases? Arch Public Health 2011; 69:8. [PMID: 22958637 PMCID: PMC3436652 DOI: 10.1186/0778-7367-69-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2010] [Accepted: 12/05/2011] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The completion of the Human Genome Project triggered a whole new field of genomic research which is likely to lead to new opportunities for the promotion of population health. As a result, the distinction between genetic and environmental diseases has faded. Presently, genomics and knowledge deriving from systems biology, epigenomics, integrative genomics or genome-environmental interactions give a better insight on the pathophysiology of common diseases. However, it is barely used in the prevention and management of diseases. Together with the boost in the amount of genetic association studies, this demands for appropriate public health actions. The field of Public Health Genomics analyses how genome-based knowledge and technologies can responsibly and effectively be integrated into health services and public policy for the benefit of population health. Environmental exposures interact with the genome to produce health information which may help explain inter-individual differences in health, or disease risk. However today, prospects for concrete applications remain distant. In addition, this information has not been translated into health practice yet. Therefore, evidence-based recommendations are few. The lack of population-based research hampers the evaluation of the impact of genomic applications. Public Health Genomics also evaluates the benefits and risks on a larger scale, including normative, legal, economic and social issues. These new developments are likely to affect all domains of public health and require rethinking the role of genomics in every condition of public health interest. This article aims at providing an introduction to the field of and the ideas behind Public Health Genomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evy Cleeren
- Operational Direction Public Health and Surveillance, Scientific Institute of Public Health, Brussels, Belgium
- Institute for Public Health Genomics (IPHG), Cluster of Genetics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Johan Van der Heyden
- Operational Direction Public Health and Surveillance, Scientific Institute of Public Health, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Angela Brand
- Institute for Public Health Genomics (IPHG), Cluster of Genetics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Health, Medicine & Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Herman Van Oyen
- Operational Direction Public Health and Surveillance, Scientific Institute of Public Health, Brussels, Belgium
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Wichmann HE, Kuhn KA, Waldenberger M, Schmelcher D, Schuffenhauer S, Meitinger T, Wurst SHR, Lamla G, Fortier I, Burton PR, Peltonen L, Perola M, Metspalu A, Riegman P, Landegren U, Taussig MJ, Litton JE, Fransson MN, Eder J, Cambon-Thomsen A, Bovenberg J, Dagher G, van Ommen GJ, Griffith M, Yuille M, Zatloukal K. Comprehensive catalog of European biobanks. Nat Biotechnol 2011; 29:795-7. [DOI: 10.1038/nbt.1958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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From single biobanks to international networks: developing e-governance. Hum Genet 2011; 130:377-82. [PMID: 21785980 PMCID: PMC3155683 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-011-1063-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2011] [Accepted: 06/30/2011] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
The future holds the possibility to link and network biobanks, existing biorepositories and reference databases for research purposes in ways that have not been possible before. There is the potential to develop 'research portals' that will enable researchers to access these research resources that are located around the globe with the click of a mouse. In this paper, I will argue that our current governance system for research is unable to provide all of the oversight and accountability mechanisms that are required for this new way of doing research that is based upon flows of data across international borders. For example, our current governance framework for research is nationally based, with a complex system of laws, policies and practice that can be unique to a jurisdiction. It is also evident that many of the nationally based governance bodies in this field do not have the legal powers or expertise to adjudicate on the complex issues, such as privacy and disclosure risks that are raised by cross-border data sharing. In addition, the conceptual underpinning of this research governance structure is based on the "one researcher, one project, one jurisdiction" model. In the conclusion of this paper, I lay out some preliminary ideas as to how this system has to change to accommodate research that is based on networks. I suggest that a move to digital governance mechanisms might be a start to making research governance systems more appropriate for the 21st century.
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Zatloukal K, Hainaut P. Human tissue biobanks as instruments for drug discovery and development: impact on personalized medicine. Biomark Med 2011; 4:895-903. [PMID: 21133710 DOI: 10.2217/bmm.10.104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, biobanks of human tissues have evolved from small-scale collections of pathological materials into structured resource centers for acquisition, storage, processing and usage of high-quality biospecimens for research. This evolution goes hand in hand with the development of highly sensitive, high-throughput methods for biomarker discovery. The complexity of the molecular patterns of diseases such as cancer provides multiple opportunities for targeted therapeutic intervention, tailored to suit the particular characteristics of each patient. Developing and evaluating such novel therapies requires access to rigorously designed and well-structured collections of biospecimens. In turn, biobanking infrastructures have a critical impact on the discovery, development and implementation of new drugs for cancer treatment. Therefore, it is essential to harmonize biobanking procedures, and to develop innovative solutions supporting biobank interoperability and specimen sharing, ensuring that new drugs may effectively reach out to the largest possible number of patients.
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Fortin S, Pathmasiri S, Grintuch R, Deschênes M. ‘Access Arrangements’ for Biobanks: A Fine Line between Facilitating and Hindering Collaboration. Public Health Genomics 2011; 14:104-14. [DOI: 10.1159/000309852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2009] [Accepted: 11/17/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Balogun N, Gentry-Maharaj A, Wozniak EL, Lim A, Ryan A, Ramus SJ, Ford J, Burnell M, Widschwendter M, Gessler SF, Gayther SA, Jacobs IJ, Menon U. Recruitment of newly diagnosed ovarian cancer patients proved challenging in a multicentre biobanking study. J Clin Epidemiol 2010; 64:525-30. [PMID: 21074968 DOI: 10.1016/j.jclinepi.2010.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2009] [Revised: 06/11/2010] [Accepted: 07/23/2010] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the challenges of recruiting ovarian cancer patients and healthy controls to a cancer biobanking study. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING The study was set up in gynecological cancer centers in 10 National Health Service trusts across the United Kingdom. Women were approached if they were undergoing investigations/awaiting treatment for ovarian cancer, had a previous diagnosis of ovarian cancer, or were attending for annual screening in an ovarian cancer screening trial. Those who consented completed a detailed epidemiologic questionnaire, provided blood and tissue samples if appropriate. RESULTS The overall proportion of those recruited compared with the expected targets was 76.4% for healthy controls, 86.0% for old cases, and 46.9% for new cases. Only 4 of 10 (40%) centers recruited over 50% of their target for new cases. Unwillingness to participate was reported as primarily because of patients being too unwell, wanting to focus only on their treatment, or having insufficient time because of conflicting medical appointments. Concerns about use of personal data or tissue and blood samples for genetic research and lack of direct benefit were reported as significant challenges to recruitment. CONCLUSION When setting recruitment targets for patients undergoing investigations or awaiting treatment for cancer (new cases), it is important to consider lower response rates because of various patient, logistical, and trial-specific challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nyaladzi Balogun
- Gynaecological Cancer Research Centre, EGA Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London W1T 7DN, UK
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Elger BS, Iavindrasana J, Lo Iacono L, Müller H, Roduit N, Summers P, Wright J. Strategies for health data exchange for secondary, cross-institutional clinical research. COMPUTER METHODS AND PROGRAMS IN BIOMEDICINE 2010; 99:230-251. [PMID: 20089327 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmpb.2009.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2008] [Revised: 11/12/2009] [Accepted: 12/02/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Secondary use of health data has a vital role in improving and advancing medical knowledge. While digital health records offer scope for facilitating the flow of data to secondary uses, it remains essential that steps are taken to respect wishes of the patient regarding secondary usage, and to ensure the privacy of the patient during secondary use scenarios. Consent, together with depersonalisation and its related concepts of anonymisation, pseudonymisation, and data minimisation are key methods used to provide this protection. This paper gives an overview of technical, practical, legal, and ethical aspects of secondary data use and discusses their implementation in the multi-institutional @neurIST research project.
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Zika E, Paci D, Braun A, Rijkers-Defrasne S, Deschênes M, Fortier I, Laage-Hellman J, Scerri CA, Ibarreta D. A European survey on biobanks: trends and issues. Public Health Genomics 2010; 14:96-103. [PMID: 20395653 DOI: 10.1159/000296278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2009] [Accepted: 11/24/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Biobanks have recently gained great significance for research and personalised medicine, being recognised as a crucial infrastructure. At the same time, the widely varied practices in biobanking may also pose a barrier to cross-border research and collaboration by limiting access to samples and data. Nevertheless, the extent of the actual activities and the impact of the level of networking and harmonisation have not been fully assessed. To address these issues and to obtain missing knowledge on the extent of biobanking in Europe, the Institute for Prospective Technological Studies (IPTS) of the European Commission's Joint Research Centre, in collaboration with the European Science and Technology Observatory (ESTO), conducted a survey among European biobanks. In total, 126 biobanks from 23 countries responded to the survey. Most of them are small or medium-sized public collections set up either for population-based or disease-specific research purposes. The survey indicated a limited networking among the infrastructures. The large majority of them are stand-alone collections and only about half indicated to have a policy for cross-border sharing of samples. Yet, scientific collaborations based on the use of each biobank appear to be prominent. Significant variability was found in terms of consent requirements and related procedures as well as for privacy and data protection issues among the biobanks surveyed. To help promote networking of biobanks and thus maximise public health benefits, at least some degree of harmonisation should be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Zika
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Prospective Technological Studies, Seville, Spain
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22
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Goebel JW, Pickardt T, Bedau M, Fuchs M, Lenk C, Paster I, Spranger TM, Stockter U, Bauer U, Cooper DN, Krawczak M. Legal and ethical consequences of international biobanking from a national perspective: the German BMB-EUCoop project. Eur J Hum Genet 2009; 18:522-5. [PMID: 19953124 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2009.214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The international transfer of human biomaterial and data has become a prerequisite for collaborative biomedical research to be successful. However, although a national legal framework for 'biobanking' has already been formulated in many countries, little is known about how an international exchange of data and samples might affect the legal position of national biobanks and their donors. The German Telematics Platform and the Competence Network 'Congenital Heart Defects' jointly instigated a project (BMB-EUCoop) to (i) identify and assess the legal risks ensuing for biobanks and their donors in the context of Europe-wide research collaborations, (ii) devise practical recommendations to minimize or avoid these risks, and (iii) provide generic informational text, contracts and agreements to facilitate their practical implementation. Four different countries were included in the study; namely, the UK, Netherlands, Austria and Switzerland. The results of the study indicate that the degree of similarity between legal systems in different countries varies according to the respective field of jurisdiction. Although personality and property rights have long been enshrined in virtually identical pieces of law, the applicable medical professional regulations were found to be somewhat heterogeneous. Furthermore, clear-cut differences were often found to be lacking between regulations that reflect either 'soft law' or the nationally binding 'hard law' that has emerged from it. In view of the potential ambiguities, the experts uniformly concluded that the rights and interests of national (in this case, German) biobanks and their donors would be best protected by explicitly addressing any uncertainties in formal contractual agreements.
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De Paoli P. Institutional shared resources and translational cancer research. J Transl Med 2009; 7:54. [PMID: 19563639 PMCID: PMC2711056 DOI: 10.1186/1479-5876-7-54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2009] [Accepted: 06/29/2009] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The development and maintenance of adequate shared infrastructures is considered a major goal for academic centers promoting translational research programs. Among infrastructures favoring translational research, centralized facilities characterized by shared, multidisciplinary use of expensive laboratory instrumentation, or by complex computer hardware and software and/or by high professional skills are necessary to maintain or improve institutional scientific competitiveness. The success or failure of a shared resource program also depends on the choice of appropriate institutional policies and requires an effective institutional governance regarding decisions on staffing, existence and composition of advisory committees, policies and of defined mechanisms of reporting, budgeting and financial support of each resource. Shared Resources represent a widely diffused model to sustain cancer research; in fact, web sites from an impressive number of research Institutes and Universities in the U.S. contain pages dedicated to the SR that have been established in each Center, making a complete view of the situation impossible. However, a nation-wide overview of how Cancer Centers develop SR programs is available on the web site for NCI-designated Cancer Centers in the U.S., while in Europe, information is available for individual Cancer centers. This article will briefly summarize the institutional policies, the organizational needs, the characteristics, scientific aims, and future developments of SRs necessary to develop effective translational research programs in oncology. In fact, the physical build-up of SRs per se is not sufficient for the successful translation of biomedical research. Appropriate policies to improve the academic culture in collaboration, the availability of educational programs for translational investigators, the existence of administrative facilitations for translational research and an efficient organization supporting clinical trial recruitment and management represent essential tools, providing solutions to overcome existing barriers in the development of translational research in biomedical research centers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo De Paoli
- Centro di Riferimento Oncologico, IRCCS, I-33081 Aviano PN Aviano, Italy.
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Kaye J, Heeney C, Hawkins N, de Vries J, Boddington P. Data sharing in genomics--re-shaping scientific practice. Nat Rev Genet 2009; 10:331-5. [PMID: 19308065 PMCID: PMC2672783 DOI: 10.1038/nrg2573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Funding bodies have recently introduced a requirement that data sharing must be a consideration of all funding applications in genomics. As with all new developments this condition has had an impact on scientific practice, particularly in the area of publishing and in the conduct of research. We discuss the challenges that must be addressed if the full benefits of data sharing, as envisaged by funders, are to be realized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Kaye
- The Ethox Centre, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus, Headington, Oxford OX3 7LF, UK.
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García-Merino I, de Las Cuevas N, Jiménez JL, Gallego J, Gómez C, Prieto C, Serramía MJ, Lorente R, Muñoz-Fernández MA. The Spanish HIV BioBank: a model of cooperative HIV research. Retrovirology 2009; 6:27. [PMID: 19272145 PMCID: PMC2667474 DOI: 10.1186/1742-4690-6-27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2009] [Accepted: 03/09/2009] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The collection of samples from HIV-infected patients is the beginning of the chain of translational research. To carry out quality research that could eventually end in a personalized treatment for HIV, it is essential to guarantee the availability, quality and traceability of samples, under a strict system of quality management. Methods The Spanish HIV BioBank was created with the objectives of processing, storing and providing distinct samples from HIV/AIDS patients, categorized according to strictly defined characteristics, free of charge to research projects. Strict compliance to ethical norms is always guaranteed. Results At the moment, the HIV BioBank possesses nearly 50,000 vials containing different prospective longitudinal study sample types. More than 1,700 of these samples are now used in 19 national and international research projects. Conclusion The HIV BioBank represents a novel approach to HIV research that might be of general interest not only for basic and clinical research teams working on HIV, but also for those groups trying to establish large networks focused on research on specific clinical problems. It also represents a model to stimulate cooperative research among large numbers of research groups working as a network on specific clinical problems. The main objective of this article is to show the structure and function of the HIV BioBank that allow it to very efficiently release samples to different research project not only in Spain but also in other countries.
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