Research

The Michigan Neonatal Biobank stores the residual dried blood spot samples that were collected from Michigan newborns since 1988 are part of the state's Newborn Screening program. There are nearly four million dried blood spot cards in the Biobank. 

The dried blood spots can be used for studies on genetic and chronic diseases, genomics and infectious disease, and for prevalence studies. For approved research studies the samples can also be linked by the Michigan Department of Community Health to newborn screening results and statewide public health laboratories making it possible to request samples that are associated with a known health outcome.

How are the cards stored?

Cards from the years 2009 to date are stored frozen at -20C; 
Cards from 1996 through 2008 are stored in temperature and humidity controlled space; 
Older cards are currently stored at ambient temperature.

What can be measured using neonatal dried blood spots?

More than 160 different analytes or polymorphisms are cited in literature as having been measured from dried blood spot specimens for epidemiological studies. The list includes not only biological markers such as DNA, but also infectious agents and potential environmental contaminants such as heavy metals. And new nanotechnologies make it possible to measure thousands of genes, gene transcripts, proteins, metabolites, infectious agents, drugs, and toxins from small samples when they are stored under optimal conditions. 

How have Michigan's samples been used?

Michigan's samples have been used to improve current newborn screening tests; to develop new screening tests for other conditions; and for approved medical and public health research to better understand underlying causes of disease and possible interventions to improve health outcomes.  To open a list of current and past studies that use dried blood spots from the Biobank click here.

Requesting Samples

If you have questions, please feel free to reach out to us at 313-577-2133

Requests for samples and linked datasets are submitted to MDHHS using the Request for Samples form (see the link to Forms, above).