Biobanking and translation of human genetics and genomics for infectious diseases

Abstract

Biobanks are invaluable resources in genomic research of both the infectious diseases and their hosts. This article examines the role of biobanks in basic research of infectious disease genomics, as well as the relevance and applicability of biobanks in the translation of impending knowledge and the clinical uptake of knowledge of infectious diseases. Our research identifies potential fields of interaction between infectious disease genomics and biobanks, in line with global trends in the integration of genome-based knowledge into clinical practice. It also examines various networks and biobanks that specialize in infectious diseases (including HIV, HPV and Chlamydia trachomatis), and provides examples of successful research and clinical uptake stemming from these biobanks. Finally, it outlines key issues with respect to data privacy in infectious disease genomics, as well as the utility of adequately designed and maintained electronic health records. We maintain that the public should be able to easily access a clear and detailed outline of regulations and procedures for sample and data utilization by academic or commercial investigators, and also should be able to understand the precise roles of relevant governing bodies. This would ultimately facilitate uptake by researchers and clinics. As a result of the efforts and resources invested by several networks and consortia, there is an increasing awareness of the prospective uses of biobanks in advancing infectious disease genomic research, diagnostics and their clinical management.

Genomics and Infectious Diseases: Expert Perspectives on Public Health Considerations regarding Actionability and Privacy

“…The cohort studies included are prospective studies in which both genetic and infectious disease information is collected and analyzed. Biobanks are repositories and resources that provide human biospecimens and data for research on genetics and infectious disease 15 . We designed this sampling of stakeholders in order to map the range of perspectives across relevant expert groups.…”

A multifaceted approach to harness probiotics as antagonists on plant based foods, for enhanced benefits to be reaped at a global level

“…Such an understanding should extend to pathogenesis. This would shed light on host genetic determinants that modulate immune responses . Koch's postulates should be fulfilled with regard to the identification of pathogens in both human and plant systems, and methodology has now advanced to carry out molecular‐level Koch's postulates to understand pathogenicity at gene level .…”

“…If the CDC strives to streamline information on ‘bad bugs’ it is time to have an organization to concentrate on ‘good bugs.’ Although the CDC works for the USA, the benefits of the results generated are felt globally. As a long‐term solution, working towards a centralized biobank which contains both samples and data will no doubt provide a firm foundation for research, in addition to providing opportunities for collaboration and sharing among researchers.…”

“…This would shed light on host genetic determinants that modulate immune responses. 54 Koch's postulates should be fulfilled with regard to the identification of pathogens in both human and plant systems, and methodology has now advanced to carry out molecular-level Koch's postulates to understand pathogenicity at gene level. 27 This is intended to provide a conceptual framework for the experimental validation of the hypotheses inferred from the genomic analysis of microbiomes.…”

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“…In the past two decades, large collections of biospecimens have been established worldwide in the form of tissue banks and have since become powerful engines of biomedical research. Such biobanks represent invaluable sources of pathological samples for studies with various aims, such as identifying and validating biomarkers or uncovering cellular mechanisms underlying pathological conditions and drug resistance [1][2][3]. Archiving biological samples in a way that ensures long-term macromolecular integrity and activity provides the opportunity to either rerun diagnostic tests on patient samples weeks or months after collection or enables them to be used in studies operating with large sample sizes for adequate statistical power.…”