Procedure for using biological samples and data stored in the Biobank

Researchers

The Biobank of Lithuanian Population and Rare Disorders collects biological samples from Lithuanian residents and related health information. The accumulated resources form a unique infrastructure that provides access to these samples and data for research purposes to researchers in Lithuania and abroad.

The Biobank operates like a scientific library: instead of recruiting new participant groups for each new study, scientists can use high-quality samples and anonymized health information already accumulated in the Biobank.

In return, researchers who have conducted studies share newly obtained results with the Biobank, thus constantly increasing the scientific value of stored resources and creating added value for Lithuanian society.

When conducting research with the Biobank samples, scientists can:

  • discover new disease risk factors;
  • develop new diagnostic, treatment, and prevention methods;
  • contribute to the development of new drugs and public health solutions.

The accumulated and continuously supplemented biological samples and their health data enable the organization of reliable, large-scale scientific research important both for the health of Lithuanian society and for international scientific initiatives.

A researcher wishing to obtain samples or data stored in the Biobank must complete a User Application Form and submit it to the Biobank Activity Administrator by email or in person.

The following must be attached to the application:

  • Research protocol specifying objectives, methodology, and data processing conditions;
  • Ethics committee approval or commitment to obtain it;
  • Funding declaration if the research is externally funded;
  • Confirmation from the institution's head if the applicant acts on behalf of the institution;
  • Data protection description specifying anonymization and security measures;
  • Specification of desired samples or data.

Researchers are invited to contact the Biobank at the research planning stage, while the research protocol or other related documentation is being prepared, and ethics committee approvals are being sought.

Early contact allows for more efficient coordination of all processes required for the research and, if needed, to benefit from consultations with the Biobank specialists.

A properly submitted application is forwarded to the Biobank Ethics and Access Committee (EAC), which evaluates:

  • the validity and clarity of research objectives;
  • availability of requested samples or data in the Biobank;
  • compliance with ethics, legal, and data protection requirements (GDPR);
  • the competence of the researcher and/or institution and the scientific and societal benefit of the research.

A decision on granting access is made within 30 calendar days.

Once the application is approved, a Usage Agreement is concluded with the researcher. The provision of samples or data begins only after the contract is signed. The transfer process is carried out ensuring data security and traceability (e.g., using encrypted media or secure data transfer platforms).

  • submit annual progress reports if the research lasts longer than one year;
  • submit a final results report at the end of the research;
  • where possible, transfer data obtained during the research to the Biobank in compliance with legislation;
  • acknowledge the Biobank as the source of research material in all publications and presentations;
  • use the received samples and data only for the purposes specified in the contract, ensure their security, and not transfer them to third parties without the Biobank's consent.

For application forms, document submission, or additional information, please contact: biobank@mf.vu.lt