From Biobank to “Bio-Think-Tank”: Functional Evolution of UK Biobank in Public Health Policy Making

Objectives This study aims to explore the evolving role of the UK Biobank in public health policymaking, particularly its shift from a traditional biobank to a proactive “bio-think tank” and highlight the drivers and necessary elements of this evolution, with a focus on improving its functional impact on policymaking. Methods Searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar databases (end of search: August 20, 2025). We followed guidelines for the PRISMA. We identified 683 potentially relevant titles in our search and selected 51 studies in our review, reflecting “bio-think-tank” issues between January 2004 and August 2025. Results Using a functionalist framework, the study identifies key factors driving the UK Biobank’s evolution: limited real-time decision support, rising stakeholder expectations, and the UK’s desire to lead in biobank science. It defines the “bio-think tank” concept and contrasts it with traditional biobanks.