BANK CF is a dedicated biobank established to collect and store biological samples to support research that improves the respiratory health of children and families.
The purpose of BANK CF is to enable high-quality, ethically approved research by providing researchers with access to biospecimens and linked data from children with CF, as well as from children without CF who act as control participants.
Background
BANK CF was created to provide a resource for high-quality biomedical research. By storing biological samples, including bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, blood derivatives, urine, and primary cells, alongside associated health information, such as lung function measurements and patient-reported outcomes, we aim to enable research that can improve understanding of respiratory diseases, treatments, and health outcomes in children. The biobank incorporates material collected through CF clinical programs across multiple sites, including CAHS in Western Australia and interstate partner institutions.
The biobank supports both current and future research projects. This includes studies aimed at understanding disease mechanisms, developing new therapies, and improving child health outcomes. The scope of research is broad, encompassing projects related to cystic fibrosis, other respiratory disease or other unspecified research. The biobank tracks outcomes from all approved research and shares findings with the scientific community and the public.
BANK CF is structured to ensure secure storage, proper management, and ethical use of all samples. Samples are collected, processed, and stored under controlled conditions. The biobank is managed by experienced researchers and governance staff to maintain high standards of quality and safety.
Ethics Approval
BANK CF, The Respiratory Centre’s Cystic Fibrosis Biobank has been established, governed and managed in accordance with applicable domestic law, and guidelines.
All research in Australia involving humans is reviewed by an independent group of people called a Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC). The establishment and operation of the biobank have been approved by the Child and Adolescent Health Service HREC. BANK CF will be carried out according to the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research (2025).
Ownership of Samples
Participation in the biobank is voluntary. Individuals or families participating in clinical studies and interested in contributing samples are provided with detailed information about the process.
The samples stored in BANK CF are owned by the participants who donate them. Donors retain the right to withdraw their samples at any time, and their samples will be removed or destroyed according to the biobank’s policies. The biobank is responsible for managing and safeguarding these samples on behalf of the participants.
The Kids Research Institute Australia is the sponsor of BANK CF and is responsible for the oversight of the biobank.
Funding and Support
BANK CF is funded through government grants, philanthropic support, institutional funding and a cost recovery fee model. This funding ensures the biobank can operate sustainably and continue supporting valuable research projects.
Sample Management
Sample access is governed by the Scientific Management Committee (SMC). The BANK CF SMC is comprised of Principal Investigators, Scientific Researchers, Contributing organisation representatives, consumer representatives, and the BANK CF Program Manager. The scope of the SMC is to provide governance and oversight of all research activities conducted using the resources held within the BANK CF Biobank. The Committee ensures that all research is scientifically rigorous, ethically sound, and aligned with participant consent and the Biobank’s objectives.
Access Policies for Researchers
Researchers interested in using BANK CF samples must submit a proposal for review. Access is granted based on ethical approval, scientific merit, and alignment with the biobank’s research objectives.
Further Information
For questions, sample requests or more information about BANK CF, including participation and research inquiries, please contact the BANK CF team at BANKCF@thekids.org.au
Alternatively, a member of the biobank research team can be contacted, by calling The Kids Research Institute Australia on (08) 6319 1000.