Recent achievements of the National Center Biobank Network (NCBN) bioresources through Japanese fiscal year 2025
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The National Center Biobank Network (NCBN) is constituted by a network of biobanks from five National Centers and the Japan Institute for Health Security (JIHS). The NCBN primarily collects samples from patients with various diseases, amassing a total of more than 250,000 participants and 800,000 human biospecimens as of the end of March 2026. The primary sample types are blood and DNA, with spinal fluid and frozen tissue samples also collected depending on the characteristics of the disease. These samples are accompanied by highly specialized and traceable clinical information supported by advanced medical care and expertise. Moreover, some samples are accompanied by whole-genome sequencing data. Consequently, these resources provide a unique platform for translational research, biomarker discovery, and genomic medicine in Japan. In the present review, we provide a detailed account of the recent achievements of NCBN biobanks and their biospecimens and genomic data.
Source: Frontiers in Genetics
Authors: Yosuke Omae, Katsushi Tokunaga
Institution: Japan Institute for Health Security
Language: English
Topic: Ethics in Clinical Research
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,801
OpenAlex ID: W7222886506