Today, biospecimen collections are used by multiple research groups for varying research aims, from basic research through clinical trials. A well-managed biobank is a critical prerequisite for high-quality biological research. The proper collection, processing, storage, and tracking of biospecimens are critical components allowing researchers to better link molecular and clinical information. Thus, by necessity, biobanking is both a science and a business. Cambridge Healthtech Institute’s Fifth Annual Biobanking: Maximizing Your Investment in Biospecimens addresses both the business and science of biobanking, bringing together biomedical and biopharmaceutical researchers, regulators, biorepository managers, and practitioners to investigate the best strategies for effective use of biospecimens within today’s cutting-edge research.

THE SCIENCE OF BIOBANKING
Recent advances in molecular high-throughput assays have intensified the need for well-annotated, properly preserved biospecimens. A thorough assay often requires samples from both diseased/treated and normal/untreated tissue. The Science of Biobanking addresses methodologies that maximize the quality and utility of samples for research, including:

Preparing the Biospecimen  

• Collection
• Processing
• Isolation
• Storage
• Purification
• Preservation
• Case studies

Using the Biospecimen 

• Extraction of biomolecules
• Measuring quality
• Fit-for-purpose
• Biomarker validation
• Assay development
• Assay validation
• Case studies

Leveraging the Biospecimen 

• Biomarkers of health and disease
• Translation from laboratory to clinic
• Diagnostic tools
• Targets for drug discovery
• Tests for drug development
• Clinical trials
• Case studies

THE BUSINESS OF BIOBANKING
As biobank repositories grow, the pressure increases for standardization, documentation, protocols, and preservation procedures to efficiently produce the best-quality product. In addition, genomics has complicated the direction of biomedical research, and those involved must now negotiate the regulatory, ethical, and legal issues involved in the preservation and use of biospecimens. Best practices include:

Resource Management  

• Scheduling and procurement
• Collection and annotation
• Specimen processing
• Biopreservation protocols
• Storage and backup
• Requisition and withdrawal
• Shipping and distribution

Data Management 

• Informatics tools
• Inventory control
• Tracking and shipping
• Databases
• Infrastructure and hardware
• Free-text to structured data
• Data integration

Regulatory Management 

• Chain of custody
• Informed consent
• Compliance
• International harmony
• HIPAA/CLIA/CAP
• Hazardous specimens
• Custodianship and long-term
  storage

Those encouraged to submit a title and summary of their experiences for consideration of presentation include: 

• Molecular researchers developing biopreservation technologies and utilizing biospecimens for their research
• Biobankers providing biospecimens, developing standards and protocols, and managing resources while navigating regulatory compliance
• IT professionals storing, analyzing, and utilizing data

To submit a proposal for consideration, please click here.

Deadline for priority consideration is March 29, 2013. 

All proposals are subject to review by the Scientific Advisory Committee to ensure the overall quality of the conference program. Please note that due to limited speaking slots, preference is given to abstracts from those within pharmaceutical and biomedical companies, regulators, and those from academic research centers. Additionally, as per CHI policy, a select number of vendors/consultants who provide products and services will be offered opportunities for podium presentation slots based on a variety of Corporate Sponsorships. 

For more details on the conference, please contact:
Mary Ann Brown
Executive Director, Conferences
Cambridge Healthtech Institute
Email: mabrown@healthtech.com
Phone:  (+1) 781-972-5497

For sponsorship and exhibit sales information, please contact:
Katelin Fitzgerald
Manager, Business Development
Cambridge Healthtech Institute
Email: kfitzgerald@healthtech.com
Phone:  (+1) 781-972-5458