The Bio-PIN: a concept to improve biobanking

Nat Rev Cancer. 2011 Apr;11(4):303-8. doi: 10.1038/nrc3022. Epub 2011 Mar 17.

Abstract

A new biobanking method is proposed, wherein samples and associated data would be deposited anonymously and labelled using a PIN code that is produced on the basis of personal biological characteristics, such as single nucleotide polymorphisms. The code would be the 'Bio-PIN' to uniquely distinguish the sample depositors, plus their samples and data. This method could help to diminish several long-discussed ethical, legal and societal problems in biobanking regarding privacy, informed consent, autonomy, data security and public trust.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biological Specimen Banks / ethics*
  • Biological Specimen Banks / standards*
  • Computer Security*
  • Humans
  • Patient Identification Systems*
  • Patient Rights