UK Biobank

UK Biobank is a large-scale biomedical database and research resource that contains in-depth genetic and health information from half a million UK participants. It is a major global resource for researchers, providing access to de-identified data including whole genome sequencing, proteomics, and extensive imaging. The organization operates as a registered charity and a company limited by guarantee, supported by the UK government and major medical charities. Unlike traditional pharmaceutical companies, UK Biobank does not develop drugs internally; rather, it provides the critical data infrastructure and biological samples that enable pharmaceutical companies and academic institutions to discover new treatments for life-threatening diseases such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, and dementia. The resource is widely considered the gold standard in population-based health research.