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About the ADDRI Biobank

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Dedicated to supporting researchers with the biological samples and associated data they need to drive discoveries and improve outcomes for people affected by dust diseases. 

We manage an extensive collection of biological samples and clinical information from people with mesothelioma and other dust diseases — known as a Biobank — to support lifesaving research.

The ADDRI Biobank, held within a secure specialised facility at ADDRI, collects and holds donated blood, tissue, fluid and stool samples (biosamples) from people diagnosed with asbestos, silicosis and other dust-related diseases.  By safely storing these samples and health information, we’re giving scientists and researchers the tools they need to better understand mesothelioma and silicosis among other dust diseases – to improve the way these diseases are diagnosed and treated and ultimately, working towards a cure.

Why The ADDRI Biobank matters to research

Samples generously donated and associated health information are used to provide vital data that support scientists’ translational research – turning scientific discoveries into real-world solutions that help people. This ‘bed to bedside’ approach is the cornerstone of our mission – and applying this knowledge to improve diagnosis, treatments and outcomes for patients.

At ADDRI, translational research means working to find better ways to detect, treat and understand dust-related diseases, so that science leads directly to better patient outcomes.

Earlier diagnosis, advancing treatments – the ADDRI Biobank can help advance research by:

Identifying a new biomarker in blood samples that helps detect mesothelioma earlier

Developing more targeted therapies based on how asbestos and silica dust exposure affects cells

Improving how dust diseases are diagnosed and managed in real clinical settings

Learn more about ADDRI’s research projects

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Quick Facts

How big is the ADDRI Biobank?
What kind of samples do we collect and store? 
How do the samples help advance research?

We currently hold over 17,000 samples donated by 1,626 patients.  These numbers continue to increase monthly as we expand our collection sites.

All samples are de-identified, meaning personal details are removed, but they are securely linked with clinical health information so researchers can study health patterns without knowing who the sample came from.

We are currently collecting the following samples: Blood, tumour tissue, pleural, ascites and peritoneal fluids, bronchioalveolar lavage fluid, and stool.

Samples donated to the ADDRI Biobank are used to support scientists in their work to better understand diseases and develop new treatments.

Researchers may study proteins, fats, and other substances found in and around cells — known as the cell’s microenvironment. Sometimes, cells from samples are grown in the lab (called cell lines) so they can be studied for many years.

These samples are used to:

Explore how cancer cells behave

Test new and innovative drug treatments

Study individual cells or tissue slices under a microscope

Examine DNA and RNA to understand how genes work

Every sample helps bring us closer to better care, earlier diagnosis, and more effective treatment for dust-related diseases.

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