Biobanking: Basic concepts and role in rheumatology

ABSTRACTBiobanking is a process of cryogenic preservation of various biological specimens for research and experimental purposes. The various steps in biobanking are collection, preservation and annotation of samples, and availing these for research purposes. Various models of biobanks are followed in different parts of the world. Biobanking is not without bottlenecks, most important of these being legal and ethical issues. This review is directed at a brief overview on some of these aspects of biobanking with purview on Indian perspective. The role of biobanking in rheumatology is discussed with special comments on common rheumatological disorders. Also in this review, its utility in understanding the pathophysiology of various rheumatological illnesses is emphasized.