Issues and Prospects for the Development of Biobanks: Trust or Caution in the Academic and Healthcare Community

The article analyzes the major obstacles impeding the development of biobanks in the Russian Federation, outlining future trends in this field. Biobanks form a key component of research infrastructure, serving as repositories for unique biological samples for use by researchers and physicians when investigating disease pathogenesis and developing personalized treatment decisions. The biobanking industry in Russia faces significant challenges, including low awareness among the general population and the professional community directly involved in the interaction with biobanks and donors. In addition, the lack of a coherent legal and regulatory framework, as well as social support measures, creates uncertainty regarding protection of the rights of potential donors and hinders the work of scientific organizations. The results obtained highlight the need for a comprehensive strategy to advance biobanking in Russia. This strategy should encompass the formulation of a legal and regulatory framework to foster public support for this initiative and facilitate a dialogue between the academic community, governmental agencies, and the larger public.