Core focus areas
The UZ/KU Leuven Biobank operates across three core focus areas.
1. Study review and support
The use of human body material (HBM) for scientific research is regulated by the Belgian Law on Human Body Material of 19 December 2008. Human body material includes samples such as blood, tissue, cells and DNA that may be used for research purposes.
All research projects at UZ Leuven and KU Leuven that involve human body material are reviewed and approved by the UZ/KU Leuven Biobank. This review and the support provided to researchers help to ensure that samples are collected, used and stored in accordance with legal and ethical requirements.
2. Registration of human body material
The UZ/KU Leuven Biobank manages and maintains a sample registration system which supports researchers with sample management activities while capturing the required data to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Sample registration is mandatory for samples that are subject to the Law on HBM of 19 December 2008 and samples that are stored in the central biobank facilities.
In the future, this sample registration system is intended to serve as a catalogue to optimize sample utilization and to facilitate data exchange with other systems.
3. Central storage facilities
The UZ/KU Leuven Biobank manages centralised freezer storage facilities (-20°C and -80°C) and cryogenic storage facilities (-196°C), supporting research activities across UZ Leuven and KU Leuven. These central storage facilities are designed to safely store and preserve biological samples for scientific research that may contribute to new scientific discoveries and improved patient care.
Further information
- The UZ/KU Leuven Biobank is the official notified biobank of UZ Leuven and KU Leuven (FAMHP number: BB190036).
- Practical information on the operation of the UZ/KU Leuven Biobank for UZ/KU Leuven staff can be found at KU Leuven website.