HMC launches Human Tissue Biobank in collaboration with Qatar Precision Health Institute

Doha, Qatar - The Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (DLMP) at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has officially launched its Human Tissue Biobank, a joint venture with the Qatar Precision Health Institute (QPHI). This expansion on the Biobank's first phase capabilities aims to enhance both clinical care and biomedical research through the storage and management of freshly removed biological tissue.

Dr. Einas Al Kuwari, Chair of the DLMP, emphasized the significance of this phase, noting that the Biobank now houses over 700,000 paraffin blocks and 2.6 million tissue slides. This has already supported more than 58 research applications, reinforcing the Biobank's role in advancing disease diagnosis, personalized treatment development, biomarker discovery, and translational research.

The new phase will allow the Biobank to handle freshly resected tissue, paving the way for advanced diagnostics, precision medicine, and biomedical research. This includes support for molecular and genomic testing, next-generation sequencing, and specialized predictive assays. Dr. Al Kuwari highlighted that these advancements will improve the accuracy of treatment decisions and expand access to cutting-edge diagnostic solutions, ultimately contributing to personalized healthcare and precision medicine.

QPHI's collaboration with HMC underscores Qatar's commitment to developing its national infrastructure for precision medicine and biomedical research. The Biobank's transition to this advanced phase, while maintaining strict adherence to ethical and regulatory standards, is set to bolster Qatar's standing in biomedical research and personalized healthcare solutions.