The stated objective of the biobank project is to participate in large international collaborative projects. By utilizing biobank samples, it becomes possible to include a larger number of patients in research studies. Recently, a major joint EU project proposal was submitted to enhance ME/CFS research with the involvement of European biobanks. Ultimately, this will expedite research in the field of ME/CFS, as samples will be readily available for collaborative inquiries without the need for new sample collection. Furthermore, the researchers at the Medical University of Vienna hope that the availability of samples from the ME/CFS Biobank Austria will make Vienna an attractive hub for future therapeutic studies, as access to existing patient samples for comparative purposes will be possible.
The ME/CFS Biobank Austria, under the leadership of Prof. Untersmayr-Elsenhuber, represents a significant contribution to intensify research in the field of ME/CFS, focusing on disease mechanisms, diagnostics, and causal therapies.