Around 2,900 study members have given consent for DNA to be extracted from blood and / or buccal samples and LHA was given ethical approval in 2007 to use these samples for genetic studies of lifelong health and ageing.
Genetic studies help us to elucidate biological mechanisms of ageing and understand why people with similar life experiences age differently.

The NSHD DNA Repository supports high calibre studies of human health and disease that make the best use of the genetic resource in conjunction with the existing life course data. Dr Andrew Wong coordinates the genetic research of the NSHD and is responsible for the safe storage and efficient use of the samples, which are managed by Source BioScience.

Further information on the access to the NSHD DNA Repository is available.