The UK DNA Banking Network biobank

This biobanking research infrastructure was set up in 2003 with support from the MRC. The research value of DNA samples and associated data whose accrual was funded by MRC is sustained in part with ongoing MRC support. Other funders also support the biobank. DNA samples are managed within the  Centre for Integrated Genomic Medical Research at the University of Manchester. To guard against catastrophic loss, a complete set of "mirror" samples is held at UK BioBank.  Some DNA samples have matching cell lines (obtained by EBV transformation) or peripheral blood lymphocyte (PBL) aliquots. These are managed by the Health Protection Agency's European Cell and Culture Collection in Porton Down.

Subjects provide collectors with blood samples. Extraction of native DNA from blood is undertaken at the biobank or by the individual collector.  Extraction of DNA from PBLs or from EBV cell lines is undertaken at the biobank or at ECACC.  The biobank stores and distributes the different types of DNA. It can also undertake whole genome amplification on native DNA  to replenish stocks.

Each DNA sample is held in a number of formats (i.e. either in tubes or in the wells of a 96-well plate). The 96-well plates may be either deep-well plates or shallow-well plates. For any subject, samples types may be available in different  combinations (one or more of DNA (from blood or LCL's), LCLs or PBLs). Further combinations are likely to exist as new sample types emerge (e.g. amplified DNA). For any one sample, the combination may change over time.

The biobank has capacity for >100,000 samples. Each sample is represented by at least  three aliquots or more: the original native DNA sample plus two aliquots made to a standard concentration (usually 100ng/microlitre). 

Research and development to improve sample management methods and processes is undertaken by the biobank. It also is developing links to other collections.