“Increasing Adoption of Automation and Digital Technologies in Biobanks”
- The adoption of automation and digital technologies in biobanks is transforming sample handling, improving efficiency, accuracy, and data management
- Automated systems are now used to manage various sample workflows, including collection, labeling, and storage of biological specimens
- For instance, Biobanks such as the Biobank of the Netherlands utilize automated robotic systems to improve the speed and accuracy of sample processing
- Robotics and automated sample tracking systems significantly reduce human error, increase throughput, and ensure the proper storage conditions of biological samples.
The Swiss Biobanking Platform uses automation to track and store samples under specific conditions, enhancing preservation for long-term research - Cloud-based data management systems are becoming integral in biobanks, enabling remote access to sample data, which improves collaboration and data sharing among researchers worldwide
- For instance, The UK Biobank has incorporated cloud storage to manage and share genetic data from over 500,000 participants, making it accessible to a global network of researchers
- Data analytics tools integrated into biobanks allow for the analysis of vast amounts of biological data quickly, helping researchers make new discoveries
- For instance, The use of artificial intelligence by biobanks such as the National Cancer Institute to analyze cancer-related genetic data more efficiently
- The integration of digital record-keeping systems ensures detailed tracking of each sample’s history, from collection to usage, fostering compliance with ethical standards and regulations, and increasing transparency
The Finnish Biobank System employs digital technologies to ensure full traceability of samples, ensuring high levels of ethical compliance - Overall, automation and digital technologies are enhancing the operational capabilities of biobanks, making them more efficient, accessible, and valuable for advancing scientific research
