Editorial: From biological collections to solutions: the vital role of biobanking in one health and global health

The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated both the critical importance of biobanking infrastructure and the persistent challenges in achieving equitable access to biological resources globally. The pandemic accelerated recognition that sustainable biobanking networks are essential for preparedness and rapid response to emerging infectious diseases (3,4). However, the underutilization and limited awareness of biological collections and biobanking in One Health and Global Health research persists(5).The four articles in this Research Topic collectively address critical dimensions of biobanking for global health: institutional capacity building, regional collaboration, intersectoral challenges, and innovative governance models. Together, they offer a comprehensive picture of both the obstacles and opportunities in leveraging biological collections for pandemic preparedness and One Health implementation.da Silva et al describe the establishment and evolution of a biobank at the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz) in Brazil -originally conceived during the COVID-19 pandemic to store SARS-CoV-2 virus and human-derived clinical samples, and subsequently expanded into the Biodiversity and Health Biobank (BBS Fiocruz) to encompass human biological materials and biodiversity samples related to a broader spectrum of emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases. However, realizing this potential requires sustained investment, innovative governance models, 97 regional and international collaboration, and unwavering commitment to equity and benefit sharing. 98As we face an era of accelerating environmental change, biodiversity loss, and increased pathogen 99 spillovers, the role of biobanking in One Health and Global Health will only grow more critical. The 100 work presented in this Research Topic provides a foundation for harnessing the full power of 101 biological collections to create a healthier, more equitable, and more resilient world. 102