Specialized biorepository for human brain glioma: project development and operational experience

Introduction. Today we observe an increase in brain tumor incidence around the world, and glioma is no exception. Gliomas are still among the most frequently diagnosed primary central nervous system tumors despite a large number of glioma management studies. Their control still remains a challenge. It is necessary to create specialized cryogenic storage with a systematized databank that could provide a basis for more profound studies of their pathogenesis and invasion patterns. There are about 20 biorepository facilities in Russia; however, they do not focus on a particular tumor type. The aim of the study was to develop the spe-cific biobank of glial tumors integrated with a dedicated electronic system containing all associated clinical data necessary for the research purposes. Materials and methods. The required amount of material sampling was carried out during the surgical resec-tion in patients with a preliminary diagnosis of “malignant glioma”, followed by processing, cryopreserva-tion, and passportization. Results. Between August 1, 2018, and April 30, 2020, a total of 1,452 aliquots from 358 subjects were ac-cumulated in the biobank. Each frozen sample corresponded to a paraffin block and provided with the whole set of associated demographic, clinical, histological, and follow-up data. All these records were stored in the electronic information system. During this study, the design of the glioma passport was developed. Conclusion. The development of an appropriate facility is necessary for efficient further experimental re-search. It offers an opportunity for future implementation of personalized treatment methods after a full clinical trial cycle. Keywords: neurooncology, glioma, glioblastoma, biobank, biorepository