UK Biobank is the biggest whole-genome dataset in the world.
This unprecedented wealth of genetic data will transform research into how our genes affect health and disease. Analyses have already resulted in novel genetic findings, such as for the prevention and treatment of obesity and advancement in drug discovery and development.
Genetic data at a glance
Genotyping and imputation
Around 850,000 genetic variants were directly measured, and more than 90 million variants were predicted using statistical methods.
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Current availability- 500,000 participants
Whole exomes
The exome comprises only the DNA regions – about 2% of the entire genome – that provide the body with instructions for making proteins. Already, exome sequencing data has resulted in novel genetic findings, such as for the prevention and treatment of obesity.
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Current availability
- 500,000 participants
Whole genomes
The complete genetic make-up of an individual. This will enable researchers to better understand the role of genetics for health outcomes and to advance drug discovery and development.
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Current availability
- 500,000 participants
Telomere length
The length of the telomeres, repetitive DNA regions at the end of the chromosomes, is a marker of biological age. Measurement of telomere length helps the understanding of the causes of ageing and age-associated diseases to support the prevention and treatment of diseases of the heart, brain, bone and cancer.
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Current availability
- 500,000 participants
- 20,000 participants with repeat biomarkers (collected about five years after first sample)
Access UK Biobank genetic data
Researchers can explore all genetic data on our data browser, Showcase.
Genetic data research stories
Read a selection of stories about how healthcare is being changed by discoveries made with genetic data.
DNA from nearly 750,000 people, including UK Biobank participants, reveals genes that make people prone to persistent Epstein-Barr virus infections, which are linked to rheumatoid arthritis, cancer and many other diseases.
There should be more focus on finding treatments that target the ‘Alzheimer’s gene’, researchers argue.
UK Biobank participants’ genetic data and questionnaire answers reveal some of the biological underpinnings of pain – raising hope of new therapies for the billions of people who experience persistent pain.
More awareness of Alexander disease, a progressive and disabling brain condition, could stop misdiagnoses and missed treatment opportunities.
Explore our other data categories
Magnetic resonance images, bone-density scans, carotid artery ultrasound and more
Proteins, metabolites, infectious disease markers and other biomarkers
Linked electronic medical records, including hospital stays, cancer diagnoses and causes of death
Participants’ information on health and lifestyle collected via online or touchscreen questionnaires
Baseline data from physical exams, vision and hearing tests, activity monitor and more
Participants’ self-reported data on health and lifestyle
Derived data on participants’ environment, such as local air and noise pollution
“[Whole genome sequencing data] is a veritable treasure trove for approved scientists undertaking health research, and I expect it to have transformative results for diagnoses, treatments and cures around the globe.”
Professor Sir Rory Collins, Chief Executive and Principal Investigator of UK Biobank