What is the Indiana Biobank (IB)?

Indiana University is developing a resource for scientists to have access to blood and tissue samples, along with patient health information, located in one place (a bank) to conduct research on many diseases and health conditions that affect Hoosiers.

What is a biobank?

Biobanks are collections of human biological materials (e.g., tissue samples, DNA, and blood). Although the term might be applied to any collection of biological samples, “biobank” is often used as short-hand for tissue samples linked to genetic information and/or a person’s medical history. Biobanks are sometimes called “DNA banks” or “genetic databases”.

Why are biobanks important to Indiana?

Increasingly, researchers use biobanks to study genetic factors in health and disease. Using the banked genetic material and information, researchers do work that may lead to the development of new diagnostic tests and targeted or personalized treatments for diseases. We hope these discoveries will help improve the health of Hoosiers.

Who is eligible to participate?

The Indiana Biobank (IB) is currently looking for enrollees who receive care at:

• IU Health Hospitals and associated Clinics, including Riley Children’s Hospital
• Eskenazi Hospital and associated clinics

What do I need to do?

Participation in the IB is voluntary. If you decide to participate, you will review a document that will describe the study in more details. If you have any questions, please do not sign the online document. Instead, indicate that you have a question and an Indiana Biobank study coordinator will contact you. If you agree to participate, you will be asked to complete a very brief questionnaire. A blood sample will be collected for this study during your clinic visit today.

How long will my blood sample be stored?

Your blood sample will be stored for an indefinite period of time unless you ask for your sample to be removed.

If you are ready to get started, please click here!

For more information about samples and available data, please contact: inbiobnk@iu.edu