BBMRI.at Publication
New publication provides insights into the utilization patterns of hospital biobank samples
Researchers from the MedUni Vienna Biobank, a partner of BBMRI.at, have published one of the first comprehensive analyses of how hospital biological samples are actually used in biomedical research. The study provides valuable evidence on sample demand, time to first use, and utilization patterns, contributing to more sustainable and data-driven biobank management. BBMRI.at supported the work as part of its mission to strengthen quality, sustainability, and research excellence in biobanking.
Understanding how biobank samples are used
Biobanks collect and preserve biological samples for future research, yet little empirical evidence has been available on which samples are ultimately requested and how long they remain in storage before first use. To address this knowledge gap, researchers analysed more than 13,000 sample submissions deposited in 2019 at the BBMRI.at partner MedUni Vienna Biobank and tracked their utilization over a period of up to seven years.
Key findings - more than half of all collections supported research projects, but sample type matters
The study found that more than half of all biobank collections contributed to research projects during the observation period. Utilization differed markedly depending on how it was measured, highlighting the need for harmonised performance indicators across biobanks. The median time to first use among accessed samples was approximately 2.5 years. Serum was the most frequently requested sample type. The analysis also showed that samples collected in broad prospective cohorts tended to be accessed earlier than those collected for dedicated studies.
Supporting sustainable biobanking
These findings provide an important evidence base for optimising collection strategies, storage capacity, aliquoting schemes, and long-term resource planning. By better understanding how different sample types are used in practice, biobanks can improve both their scientific impact and operational sustainability. The publication also contributes to the ongoing international discussion on biobank performance assessment and strategic infrastructure management.
Towards data-driven biobank management
The study demonstrates how systematic analysis of biobank utilization can support evidence-based management of research infrastructures. Such data are essential for developing sustainable biobanking strategies, improving resource allocation, and maximising the long-term scientific value of biospecimens. These questions are central to BBMRI.at’s mission of advancing high-quality, sustainable biobanking and research infrastructure in Austria.