New biobank legislation introduced last autumn will make it easier for Finnish medical organizations to collect and store a wider range of samples and other data, to be used for future research. Unlike traditional sample collections, which were put together in order to research a specific subject, Biobanks amass biological samples as well as related information to be used in future for as-yet-undefined research into diseases.
”The aim of this project is to develop care practices, so that the right treatment or dose can be administered at the right time. This would increase not only the safety of the treatment but also its cost-effectiveness,” said senior physician Teijo Kuopio.
The Nordic countries’ first professor of biobanks, Olli Carpén, said there are great expectations for this new method of storing samples. “Biobanks are expected to create a unique research environment, as well as generate and attract medical business to Finland,” he said.
Central Finland’s new Biobank is at the forefront of the field, and is the only facility not to be linked to a university hospital. Further facilities exist or are planned for Turku, Helsinki, Tampere, Kuopio and Oulu.
