Abstract
Biobanks are a valuable resource for creating advancements in science through cutting-edge omics research. Twin research methods allow us to understand the degree to which genetics and environmental factors contribute to health outcomes. The Sri Lankan Twin Registry biobank (SLTR-b) was established in 2015 as part of Colombo Twin and Singleton Follow-up Study. Venous blood and urine were collected from twins and comparative sample of singletons for clinical investigations and biobanking. The SLTR-b currently houses 3369 DNA and serum samples. Biobank specimens are linked to longitudinal questionnaire data, clinical investigations, anthropometric measurements, and other data. The SLTR-b aims to address gaps in health and genetics research. It will provide opportunities for academic collaborations, local and international, and capacity building of future research leaders in twin and omics research. This paper provides a cohort profile of the SLTR-b and its linked data, and an overview of the strategies used for biobanking.
Highlights
In 2007, twins from the registry and a comparative sample of singletons were recruited from Colombo district to conduct a cross-sectional study on mental health titled ‘The Colombo Twin and Singleton Study’ (COTASS 1) [3]
COTASS 1 aimed to bridge a gap in genetic research on mental health in a low- and middle-income country by exploring the genetic and environmental factors involved in common mental disorders in the Sri Lankan population
COTASS 2 comprised of three main study components: surveys, anthropometric measures, and biospecimen collection for clinical investigations and biobanking
Summary
Twin research methods are genetically sensitive designs which allow researchers to understand the degree to which genetics and environmental factors contribute to variation (individual differences) in variables such as health outcomes. Twin studies allow for associations between traits (disorders) to be quantified in parts due to shared genes and shared environmental factors
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