Biobank network of the Ruhr University Bochum
The interdisciplinary biobank network of the Ruhr University Bochum (BioNet.RUB) coordinates the quality-assured and data protection-compliant collection of biomaterials of the University Medical Center Bochum.
These materials are made available for approved research projects. The aim of the network is to improve the prediction, prevention, diagnosis and therapy of diseases in human medicine. In addition, the collected samples and data contribute to researching fundamental mechanisms for a better understanding of diseases.
BioNet.RUB is part of the Medical Research Services (MRS.RUB) operating unit of the Faculty of Medicine and provides a central IT structure, while the biomaterials are stored decentrally in the cooperating clinics and institutes of Bochum University Medicine. Existing and new biomaterial collections are integrated into the network through standardized processes, a uniform declaration of consent and shared core data sets.
Information for researchers
Setting up your own biomaterial collection
BioNet.RUB supports researchers in setting up their own biomaterial collection. As a cooperation partner, you will receive access to the CentraXX biobank software, which is hosted on RUB servers. You can use CentraXX to manage your samples and the associated data in pseudonymized form in compliance with data protection regulations. Standardized operating procedures (SOPs) ensure uniform sample storage in all UK RUB facilities.
Are you missing an ethics vote for your collection? BioNet.RUB offers support with:
- Connection to the existing BioNet.RUB ethics vote
- Provision of sample templates /strong> for patient information and consent forms
- Templates for statutes and regulations of use
- Sample contracts and SOPs
BioNet.RUB is not a traditional biobank and has no storage capacity. It is a network that coordinates the decentralized storage of biomaterials and operates a central biospecimen database.
Sample and data request
Researchers who need biosamples and data for their projects can contact BioNet.RUB informally. After a feasibility check, it will be determined whether sufficient samples and data are available for the project. An application for approval can then be submitted, which will be reviewed by an approval committee. A positive ethics vote is mandatory.
Once the samples and data have been approved, a Material Transfer Agreement and a User Agreement are concluded. The samples are sent via the clinics of the UK RUB, and the data is provided by BioNet.RUB in pseudonymized form.
Information for donors
What is a biobank?
A biobank is a collection of biological samples (e.g. tissue, blood, DNA) and the associated data. These are used for medical research projects to develop new therapeutic approaches and medicines. Biobank support the research to better understand and combat diseases.
How are the biobank samples used?
Doctors and scientists use biosamples and the associated data for medical research questions. BioNet.RUB pseudonymizes this information so that it is practically impossible to identify the donors. This research contributes to the development of personalized treatments and new preventive measures.
BioNet.RUB guarantees:
- High sample quality through standardized processing (SOPs)
- Resource savings through shared infrastructure and optimized processes
- Data protection-compliant processing and storage of all data
What are the benefits of your participation?
With your voluntary donation of tissue, blood or other samples, you are helping research:
- Investigate the causes of diseases
- To develop preventive measures to prevent diseases
- To recognize diseases earlier and treat them better
- To create new and improved treatment options
Your donation is crucial for scientific progress and the training of future doctors. It helps to develop new diagnostic and treatment methods that can benefit millions of people worldwide.
How do we protect your safety as a donor?
The protection of your personal data and the careful handling of your samples are of the highest priority for BioNet.RUB.
Security measures to protect your identity::
- All samples are automatically pseudonymized upon collection. Even the employees of BioNet.RUB have no access to your personal data.
- Samples and data are only passed on to researchers in pseudonymized form.
Project-related measures:
- Research projects that access BioNet.RUB samples and data must submit a positive ethics vote.
- Samples and data are only used for biomedical research projects that meet the highest scientific and ethical standards.
Internal security measures:
- BioNet.RUB employees are obliged to maintain data confidentiality.
- Access to the premises and data is strictly regulated and protected against unauthorized access.
A positive data protection vote by the TMF e.V. confirms that the data protection concept of BioNet.RUB complies with all applicable regulations.
