The DNA Bank Network: The Start from a German Initiative

Abstract

The explicit aim of the DNA Bank Network is to close the divide between biological specimen collections and molecular sequence databases. It provides a technically optimized DNA and tissue collection service facility in the interest of all biological research, with access to well-documented DNA-containing samples and voucher specimens as well as to corresponding molecular data stored in public sequence databases. The Network enables scientists to (i) query and order DNA samples of organisms collected from natural habitats via a shared Web portal, (ii) store DNA samples for reference under optimal conditions after project completion or data publication, (iii) obtain DNA material to conduct new studies or to extend and complement previous investigations, and (iv) support good scientific practice as the deposition of DNA samples and related specimens facilitates the verification of published results.

How to tackle the molecular species inventory for an industrialized nation—lessons from the first phase of the German Barcode of Life initiative GBOL (2012–2015)

“…Therefore, not only the inclusion of taxonomic experts who curate taxon lists is imperative, but also the deposition of DNA extracts in biobanks (Gemeinholzer et al 2011) is highly advisable to ensure future updating of reference databases with additional markers or even whole genomes.…”

“…By providing access to samples for the scientific community, GBOL further integrates into other biodiversity and taxonomy research programs. The German DNA bank network with its associated institutions (Gemeinholzer et al 2011), which are all GBOL partners, provides the infrastructure and is integrated at a global level into the GGBN Data Portal (Droege et al 2014).…”

High quality draft genome sequence of Olivibacter sitiensis type strain (AW-6T), a diphenol degrader with genes involved in the catechol pathway

“…DNA was isolated from 0.5-1 g of cell paste using Jetflex Genomic DNA purification kit (Genomed_600100) following the standard protocol as recommended by the manufacturer but applying a modified cell lysis procedure (1 hour incubation at 58°C with additional 50 µl proteinase K followed by overnight incubation on ice with additional 200 µl PPT-buffer). DNA is available via the DNA Bank Network [29]. …”

Genome sequence of the Wenxinia marina type strain (DSM 24838T), a representative of the Roseobacter group isolated from oilfield sediments

“…Genomic DNA was isolated using Jetflex Genomic DNA Purification Kit (GENOMED 600100) following the standard protocol provided by the manufacturer but modified by an incubation time of 60 min, incubation on ice overnight on a shaker, the use of an additional 50 µl proteinase K, and the addition of 100 µl protein precipitation buffer. The DNA is available from the Leibniz-Institute DSMZ through the DNA Bank Network [19]. …”