Abstract: The establishment of the PERSIAN Cohort Biobank marks a transformative moment for large-scale biomedical research in the Middle East. Designed to collect and preserve biological samples from more than 170,000 adults across 18 regions of Iran, this national biobank captures an exceptional depth of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle diversity. Through standardized protocols, robust quality-control systems, and a decentralized yet harmonized infrastructure, the project ensures long-term preservation of high-integrity samples, including blood, urine, hair, and nails. This comprehensive repository offers researchers new opportunities to study noncommunicable diseases, population health patterns, and genetic variations that have historically been underrepresented in global studies.
Beyond its scientific breadth, the PERSIAN Cohort Biobank is a powerful example of innovation in a resource-limited setting. Despite challenges such as international sanctions, regional temperature extremes, and complex logistics, the biobank implemented internationally aligned standards for data management, biospecimen storage, and participant follow-up. Its dual-storage system protects samples from risk, while annual follow-ups and planned reassessments ensure rich longitudinal data. As the biobank moves toward integrating clinical records, expanding sample types, and adopting advanced cryogenic storage, it is poised to become a globally relevant platform driving precision medicine, public health insights, and collaborative research far beyond Iran’s borders.
Source Link: https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-025-25006-y
