The European cancer moonshot "Biobank" – the heart of cancer studies

European Cancer Moonshot Lund Biobank: A Seven-Year Journey

Over the past seven years, we have been developing the European Cancer Moonshot Biobank, amassing a significant archive of biological samples to advance cancer research. Our efforts have yielded over 1 million samples through clinical studies conducted at seven prominent clinical centers worldwide.

Sample Handling, and Processing:

Unique Identification:Each sample is assigned a unique 2D barcode to ensure precise tracking and identification.Automated Workflow:Sample processing is fully automated, with blood fractions aliquoted into 384-sample tube plates, enhancing efficiency and accuracy. The entire workflow from patient to stored processed samples takes less than 2 hours. 1D-coded primary tubes and 1D-coded 384-well racks with 2D-coded vials. All information is scanned at each processing step to record the information about each blood fraction. Each donor generates 192 vials of blood and blood components, each with 70µL. All fractioning is done on a Hamilton Microlab STAR Line workstation.Robotic Sample Storage: Samples are stored at -80°C LiCONiC Kiwi 1k5 ULT automated freezer using state-of-the-art robotic systems, maintaining optimal conditions for long-term preservation and integrity. Each aliquoted fractions samples can be picked individually and retrieved from the freezer.Data Storage: All information regarding patients" clinical parameters and demographics are stored in a SQL –database using RedCap as a Web based Electronic Data Capture tool and all other information about the processed samples are stored in our own biobank tracking system.

Our biobank collections have been intense and play a crucial role in advancing medical research by providing access to large amounts of our biological specimens with the respective associated clinical data.

This robust infrastructure supports our ongoing research activities, providing invaluable resources for cancer studies and contributing to the global fight against cancer.