Appeal to Rescue The Mycetoma Biobank

We are writing to urgently appeal for assistance in rescuing the Mycetoma Biobank at the Mycetoma Research Centre, University of Khartoum. As a WHO Collaborating Center on Mycetoma and Skin Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), this biobank plays an indispensable role in global mycetoma research and management.

Established in 1991, this unique biobank is the only one of its kind in the world. It houses an extensive and irreplaceable collection of biological materials, including:

Over 1,000 fungal isolates and hundreds of bacterial isolates of rare microorganisms.
Thousands of histopathology blocks.
Blood, sera, saliva, DNA, and RNA samples.
A variety of environmental material collections.

The Mycetoma Biobank is crucial for advancing our understanding of mycetoma, a devastating disease that predominantly affects impoverished populations in tropical and subtropical regions. The biobank contents are invaluable for ongoing research and the development of new diagnostics and treatments.

Currently, the biobank is at risk and needs to be relocated to a safe environment to ensure the preservation of its vital contents and to continue its essential functions. Without immediate intervention, we risk losing decades of invaluable research materials and hindering progress in combating mycetoma and other related diseases.

We are appealing for support to secure the necessary resources to move the biobank to a secure location where it can resume its operations without threat. This includes funding for transportation, establishment of new facilities, and ensuring the ongoing maintenance and integrity of the biobank’s collections.

Your support in this endeavour will have a profound impact on the global fight against mycetoma and other NTDs. By helping us safeguard this critical resource, you will contribute to the continuation of groundbreaking research and the eventual eradication of these debilitating diseases.

The Mycetoma Research Center
University of Khartoum