The Global Genome Biodiversity Network (GGBN) Data Portal

Area of Science:

• Genomics
• Biodiversity Science
• Bioinformatics

Background:

• The Global Genome Biodiversity Network (GGBN) was established in 2011 to improve discoverability of biodiversity DNA and tissue samples.
• Access to high-quality, well-documented, and vouchered samples is crucial for advancing genome sequencing projects.
• A lack of standardized methods for accessing genomic samples presents a significant bottleneck for biodiversity research and conservation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a networked community of biodiversity repositories for enhanced data accessibility.
• To bridge the gap between biodiversity repositories, sequence databases, and research outcomes.
• To promote standardized methods for collections stewardship, information sharing, and ethical sample use.

Main Methods:

• Development and maintenance of the GGBN Data Portal (http://data.ggbn.org) for linking distributed databases.
• Facilitating collaboration among biodiversity biobank-holding institutions worldwide.
• Supporting the coordinated expansion of biodiversity biobanks through standardized practices.

Main Results:

• The GGBN Data Portal provides a centralized access point to globally distributed biodiversity genomic resources.
• Increased discoverability of DNA and tissue samples supports ambitious genome sequencing projects.
• GGBN promotes excellence in collections stewardship and ethical use of biodiversity samples.

Conclusions:

• GGBN is essential for enabling accessibility and coordinated expansion of global biodiversity biobanks.
• Standardized collaboration is critical for overcoming sample access bottlenecks in biodiversity research.
• GGBN facilitates the responsible use of genomic resources for conservation and scientific advancement.