Non-Fungible Tokens for Organoids: Decentralized Biobanking to Empower Patients in Biospecimen Research.

Abstract

Introduction: Scientists use donated biospecimens to create organoids, which are miniature copies of patient tumors that are revolutionizing precision medicine and drug discovery. However, biobanking platforms remove donor identifiers to protect privacy, precluding patients from benefiting from their contributions or sharing information that may be relevant to research outcomes. Decentralized biobanking (de-bi) leverages blockchain technology to empower patient engagement in biospecimen research. We describe the creation of the first de-bi prototype for an organoid biobanking use case.

Methods: We designed and developed a proof-of-concept non-fungible tokens (NFTs) framework for an organoid research network of patients, physicians, and scientists within a synthetic dataset modeled on a real-world breast cancer organoid ecosystem. Our implementation deployed multiple smart contracts on Ethereum test networks, minting NFTs representing each stakeholder, biospecimen, and organoid. The system architecture was designed to be composable with established biobanking programs.

Results: Our de-bi prototype demonstrated how NFTs representing patients, physicians, scientists, and organoids may be united in a privacy-preserving platform that builds upon relationships and transactions of existing biobank research networks. The mobile application simulated key features, enabling patients to track their biospecimens, view organoid images and research updates from scientists, and allow physicians to participate in peer-to-peer communications with basic scientists and patients alike, all while ensuring compliance with de-identification requirements.

Discussion: We demonstrate proof-of-concept for a web3 platform engaging patients, physicians, and scientists in a dynamic research community, unlocking value for a model organoid ecosystem. This initial prototype is a critical first step for advancing paradigm-shifting de-bi technology that provides unprecedented transparency and suggests new standards for equity and inclusion in biobanking. Further research must address feasibility and acceptability considering the ethical, legal, economic, and technical complexities of organoid research and clinical translation.