Tissue biobanking: minimum interface requirements for efficient and high-quality support for biomedical research – a white paper

Tissue biobanking is essential for biomedical research. Well-defined interfaces and standardised procedures are required to ensure sample quality and the subsequent reproducibility of research results. This paper provides an overview of the key interfaces involved in tissue biobanking workflows, including sample collection, processing, storage, distribution and data management. It outlines the minimum standards required to maintain high-quality samples and associated data, and references relevant national and international guidelines. The paper also addresses the current challenges faced by biobanks, such as harmonisation across institutions, evolving regulatory landscapes, and the integration of digital infrastructure. The primary aim of this work is to present recommendations for the effective implementation and documentation of minimum standards. These recommendations are intended to help biobanks to align with regulatory expectations, optimise operational procedures, and facilitate high-quality, ethically sound biomedical research.