Biobanking, i.e. storage of biological samples or data emerging from such samples for diagnostic, therapeutic or research purposes, has been going on for decades. However, it is only since the mid 1990s that these activities have become the subject of considerable public attention, concern and debate. This shift in climate is due to several factors. The purpose of this book is to investigate some of the ethical, legal and social challenges raised by research biobanking in its different modern forms and formats. The issues raised by research biobanking in its modern form can be divided into four main clusters: how biological materials are entered into the bank; research biobanks as institutions; under what conditions researchers can access materials in the bank, and problems concerning ownership of biological materials and of intellectual property arising from such materials; and how the information is collected and stored, e.g. access-rights, disclosure, confidentiality, data security and data protection.
Rezensionen / Stimmen
From the reviews:
"This book is composed of articles that reflect an interdisciplinary and transnational approach to the issues surrounding research biobanking. . The editors intend the book for professionals and regulators involved in research as well as academics and the general public. . The two-part structure . provides valuable information to readers at all levels of prior exposure to the issue of biobanking." (Kelly K. Dineen, Doody's Review Service, December, 2009)
"Biobanks, defined as collections of biological materials or samples, exist on every continent of the globe. . book's stated goal is to 'explore some of the legal, ethical, and social issues and challenges raised by research biobanking,' and it claims to be aimed at a wide audience, ranging from biobank researchers, health law experts, and philosophers to health and research regulators, politicians, and the general public. . this book is recommended as a textbook or as reference material for a course in comparative biobanking policy." (Rogelio A. Lasso, Journal of the American Medical Association, Vol. 304 (8), 2010)
