Genetic studies for diabetes and other diseases
The Human Biological Data Interchange
The Human Biological Data Interchange (HBDI) is the genetics division of NDRI. Created in 1988, HBDI has medical history and genealogical data on over 6700 families who are affected by type 1 diabetes. In addition, HBDI maintains a repository of DNA and immortalized cell lines collected from 500 families. This database and repository was originally created to help researchers uncover the genetic causes of type 1. Today, it is also used by researchers who study type 2 diabetes, diabetic complications, autoimmune diseases and other disorders.
Investigations using the HBDI database have led to a number of promising findings. For example, researchers discovered a genetic marker for heightened risk of developing diabetes among individuals who already have a sibling with diabetes. Using such a marker, doctors could screen siblings of diabetics, and perhaps prevent the onset of diabetes in those with the marker for diabetes susceptibility. Investigators also have found several genes that heighten diabetics’ susceptibility to various autoimmune diseases.
Joining the HBDI Database
NDRI is actively seeking families with at least one family member who has type 1 diabetes. Participation involves completing a detailed family and medical history questionnaire. Some families may be invited to donate a small blood sample to add to HBDI’s genetic repository.
Information in the HBDI database is kept confidential. This information is stripped of any personal identifiers before it is given to researchers. All researchers must meet NDRI’s strict qualifications.
If you are interested in learning more or participating in the HBDI resource, please download our questionnaire now. (PDF)
If you have questions, please call the HBDI program manager at
800-345-HBDI (4234).