Saudi Arabia strengthens medical research with KFSHRC Biobank upgrade

SAUDI ARABIA — The King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center (KFSHRC) has announced the modernization of its Biobank Center, marking a major step forward in the Kingdom’s efforts to advance healthcare and medical research.

This development aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, which emphasizes prevention, innovation, and sustainable medical research to improve public health.

The upgraded Biobank Center aims to drive progress in personalized medicine, enhance patient care, and support cutting-edge research.

 Dr. Björn Zoëga, Deputy CEO of KFSHRC, emphasized that this initiative demonstrates the hospital’s commitment to medical innovation and research excellence.

By incorporating advanced technologies, the center seeks to establish Saudi Arabia as a global leader in personalized healthcare solutions.

Dr. Amal Qattan, a molecular oncology scientist at KFSHRC, highlighted the Biobank’s state-of-the-art specifications and capabilities, which make it a standout facility in the Kingdom.

She noted that this modernization strengthens KFSHRC’s ability to address modern diseases while advancing personalized, preventive, and predictive healthcare.

The Biobank Center is now equipped to store up to 10 million high-quality biospecimens, including liquid biopsies, fresh tissue, and blood derivatives.

These samples are managed using secure electronic systems that safeguard patient data and ensure robust privacy protection.

The advanced infrastructure will enable clinical research breakthroughs and the development of targeted therapies, offering improved outcomes for patients with complex conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders, diabetes, and rare illnesses.

KFSHRC and KFUPM Partner to advance medical research

In addition to these upgrades, KFSHRC recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) to expand collaboration in medical research and innovation.

This partnership focuses on the development of biomedical devices, digital health solutions, and biotechnology advancements.

 Both institutions aim to address medical challenges locally and globally by leveraging cutting-edge research facilities and expertise.

The MoU also includes plans to create postgraduate programs, host workshops, and establish a joint technology incubator to support start-ups and localize the biotechnology industry.

These efforts align with Saudi Arabia’s National Biotechnology Strategy, which aims to position the Kingdom as a regional leader by 2030 and a global hub by 2040.

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