Veterinary Biobanking: Role in Animal Health and Livestock Genetic Conservation

Biobanking has become an essential part of modern biomedical and veterinary sciences, offering well-organized collections of biological materials and related data that support diagnostics, therapies development, and biodiversity preservation. Although originally centered on human medicine, biobanking is now expanding to veterinary science due to its important role in monitoring animal diseases, advancing comparative oncology, improving livestock breeding, conserving wildlife and advancing comparative oncology studies. Veterinary applications extend from zoonotic disease tracking to precision breeding programs and initiatives aligned with the ‘One Health’ approach. Despite these advances, challenges remain, including ethical issues, lack of representation of certain species, limited resources, and concerns about sustainability. Unequal infrastructure and standards across regions also limit progress, particularly in developing countries. Future progress is expected through the integration of multi-omics, artificial intelligence, advanced data systems, and eco-friendly practices that reduce environmental impact. Together, these developments highlight the potential of veterinary biobanking to transform animal health research, support conservation, and strengthen connections with human healthcare.