[PopGen. A population-based biobank with prospective follow-up of a control group].
The PopGen biobank was established in 2003 for research into the genetic risk factors for complex diseases. In addition to specific patient groups, a random sample from the general population was recruited as well. This cross-sectional study was mainly used as a control sample in genetic-epidemiological research. Recently, this part of the biobank was developed further into a prospective cohort study to investigate longitudinal changes of inflammatory biomarkers. Between 2005 and 2007, 1,317 study participants (age: 19-77 years, 55% men) were recruited into the PopGen control cohort, 747 via the local population registry and 570 as blood donors. Baseline assessment comprised a questionnaire, a medical examination, sampling of blood as well as ad hoc analyses of a range of biomarkers and genetic factors. Beginning in 2010, all study participants were re-invited for a program that was expanded by a food frequency questionnaire, collection of urine and stool samples, and an offer of magnetic resonance imaging to capture body fat distribution. The current response proportion is approximately 70%. The development of the PopGen controls into a prospective cohort study was originally driven by biomarker research questions, for instance related to chronic inflammation. Future follow-up will now also enable research into the influence of lifestyle variables.
Sektion für Epidemiologie, Institut für Experimentelle Medizin, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Niemannsweg 11, Haus 1, 24105, Kiel, Deutschland. noethlings@popgen.de
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D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology*; D015331:Cohort Studies; D016208:Databases, Factual; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005819:Genetic Markers / Q000235:genetics*; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000235:genetics*; D005858:Germany / Q000453:epidemiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015995:Prevalence
D005819:Genetic Markers