Saliva Biobanking: A Scoping Review of Collection, Processing, and Storage Practices to Enhance Diagnostic Potential.

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to systematically map the literature on saliva collection, processing, and storage methods for biobanking purposes, identifying current practices and gaps in standardization. Materials and Methods: A systematic search was conducted in five electronic databases and gray literature. Original research articles reporting cross-sectional and longitudinal studies using saliva for biobanking, as well as reports and protocols for biobank establishment, were included. The review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines, with two reviewers independently assessing eligibility and extracting data. Results: A total of 50 articles were included, revealing that most studies were reports on biobank establishment (38%), followed by longitudinal studies (28%), protocols (20%), and cross-sectional studies (14%). Saliva collection methods varied, with commercial kits being the most reported (40%), followed by sterile tubes (22%). While 64% of studies described processing methods and 78% reported storage methods, significant gaps in reporting were noted. Unstimulated saliva was the most commonly collected sample type (38%), and most studies focused on adult participants (46%), often with disease conditions (36%). However, many studies did not provide sufficient details on collection methods, processing techniques, storage conditions, or participant demographics. Conclusion: This review highlights the urgent need for standardized protocols in saliva biobanking to ensure consistency, reliability, and reproducibility in diagnostic research. The lack of uniformity in methodologies across studies limits the potential of saliva biobanks as a resource for identifying biomarkers of systemic and oral diseases. Establishing harmonized guidelines will enhance international collaboration, enable robust analyses, and maximize the utility of saliva in advancing personalized medicine and public health.