D5.1 - Initial whitepaper on a virtual EU biobank platform for patient recruitment pilots

Within the framework of REPO4EU, we intend to establish a comprehensive European biobank network for disease endotyping and pre-test patient recruitment. Our specific focus lies in conducting biomarker studies relevant to future clinical trials involving the repurposing of drugs. Our proposed methodology entails the creation of a virtual connection between major European biobanks in close collaboration with the Biobanking and Biomolecular Resources Research Infrastructure (BBMRI). This connection will grant us access to relevant data, facilitate the retrieval of stored samples for stable biomarkers, and enable the recall of patients for labile biomarkers. Here, we present an overview of the approach employed to engage biobanks and construct this expansive biobank network. Furthermore, we emphasise the essential prerequisites that each biobank must fulfil to be considered for inclusion. Subsequently, we have compiled an exhaustive list of the most pertinent biobanks that meet these requirements. The outcomes of this project contribute to enhancing our understanding of disease mechanisms, facilitating drug repurposing efforts, and advancing precision medicine approaches