National Biobank

Subject: Science and Technology | Health

Notes

  • A biobank is a facility that collects, processes, stores and manages biological samples.

  • Samples may include blood, tissue, DNA, cells and other biological materials.

  • Biobanks support medical research, disease diagnosis, drug development and population health studies.

  • They enable researchers to study genetic variation, disease patterns and treatment responses.

  • Ethical governance is essential because biological samples may contain sensitive personal information.

  • Consent, privacy protection, secure storage and controlled access are important principles.

Key Pointers

  • Function: Biological sample storage and management.

  • Samples: Blood, tissue, DNA and cells.

  • Uses: Medical research and disease studies.

  • Important issues: Consent, privacy and ethics.

  • UPSC relevance: Biotechnology and healthcare research.