ABSTRACT

Since the completion of the Human Genome Project, functional genomics has become a major focus in genetic studies. To understand the functions of genes and probe the complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors in causing common diseases, many researchers believe that large-scale biobanks are especially useful. Collections of biological specimens, medical records, and genealogical data become very valuable for biomedical research, especially in the areas of pharmacogenomics and population genetics (Kaiser 2002). Many countries, including Iceland, the UK, and Estonia, have launched ambitious biobank projects that are backed by government agencies and/or public funding (Austin et al. 2003). Taiwan has also done so.