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Slovakia’s New Biobank for Cancer and Rare Diseases Hosts BIOFORD Consortium Meeting

On December 6, 2023, the newly constructed Biobank for Cancer and Rare Diseases at the Jessenius Faculty of Medicine of Comenius University (JFMED) in Martin hosted a significant meeting of the BIOFORD project consortium.

11. 12. 2023 11.28 hod.
By: JLF UK

The gathering included representatives from the Ministry of Health of the Slovak Republic, the Biomedical Center of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, the Faculty of Medicine at Comenius University, the Center for Social and Psychological Sciences of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, and Žilina University.

During the visit, partner institutions had the opportunity to tour the Biobank, which is awaiting its final building approval in the coming months. "Following the tour, discussions were held on topics such as the sustainability of this biobank in collaboration with local biobanks, the implementation of international quality standards, legislative aspects, membership in BBMRI (European Research Infrastructure for Biobanking), and more," said Assoc. Prof. Zuzana Danková, PhD., Director of the Biobank for Cancer and Rare Diseases at JFMED.

Interesting features of the biobank building include:

  • The utilization of photovoltaic panels allowing the building to partially self-generate its energy.
  • A green roof, underscoring the project's commitment to sustainability.
  • The construction involved the use of 900 cubic meters of concrete and 170 tons of steel.
  • Approximately 60 kilometers of cables were used in the building.

About the Biobank:

  • The Biobank for Cancer and Rare Diseases aims to support excellent biomedical research and the development of precision medicine through standardized collection and storage of biological samples in accordance with international norms and standards.
  • It boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure and, along with the Martin Center for Biomedicine at JFMED and University Hospital Martin, represents a hub for cutting-edge research and clinical testing.
  • The focus on personalized medicine is driven by the goal of effective, modern, and targeted therapy primarily for the patient.
  • Its systematic and long-term sample collection, respecting donor rights, contributes to improving the quality of life for future generations.
  • This represents Slovakia's first biobank network, featuring prominent experts, including four members who are recipients of the prestigious Crystal Wing award.