King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSHRC) has announced the modernisation of its Biobank Centre. This modernisation aligns with the healthcare goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which emphasise prevention, public health, innovation, and the long-term sustainability of medical research.

Dr Björn Zoëga, Deputy CEO of KFSHRC, stated: “The modernisation of the KFSHRC Biobank reflects our commitment to medical innovation and research excellence. By integrating advanced technologies, we aim to position Saudi Arabia as a global leader in personalised medicine and novel healthcare solutions.”

Dr Amal Qattan, a KFSHRC molecular oncology scientist, highlighted that the Biobank stands out in the Kingdom for its advanced specifications and capabilities. This modernisation seeks to tackle the complexities of modern diseases while promoting innovation in personalised, preventative, predictive, and participatory care.

The Biobank Centre is designed to store 10 million high-quality biospecimens, which include liquid biopsies, fresh tissue, and blood derivatives. These samples are managed through a robust and integrated system that safeguards patient information and disease data within secure electronic systems. The infrastructure supports clinical research and advancements in personalised medicine, enabling more patients to benefit from targeted therapies.

The modernised Biobank Centre will also enhance healthcare quality and monitor future occurrences of complex diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular conditions, neurological disorders, ageing-related issues, diabetes, and rare diseases. The Biobank protects patient rights and privacy by adhering to rigorous governance structures while considering stakeholder interests.

KFSHRC is advancing its global healthcare with artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics.