Laboratory and Biorepository

LABORATORY OF PROCESSING AND ANALYSIS OF BIOLOGICAL SAMPLES (LabPAAB)

The Laboratory of Processing and Analysis of Biological Samples (LabPAAB) is a core facility within the Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology at the Federal University of Pelotas (PPGEpi-UFPel). LabPAAB’s primary mission is to provide state-of-the-art infrastructure and technical-scientific support for the collection, processing, and analysis of biological samples from participants in the Pelotas Birth Cohort Studies, conducted by PPGEpi researchers.

Spanning 46.15 m², LabPAAB supports advanced epidemiological research with its cutting-edge facilities and a dedicated, skilled team. The laboratory’s activities and the data it generates are crucial for advancing public health research and understanding the biological determinants of chronic non-communicable diseases. The insights gained from LabPAAB’s work have significantly contributed to the development of theses and dissertations within PPGEpi.

LabPAAB processes and analyzes blood, saliva, hair, and urine samples from cohort studies using specialized equipment to ensure high-quality pre-analytical phase results. Biological materials are processed immediately after collection to maintain their integrity and ensure proper storage.

In the analytical phase, the laboratory performs biochemical analyses to measure serum or plasma metabolites through a biochemical analyzer and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). These methods provide precise measurements of biological markers essential for research and greatly aid in assessing participant health.

DNA extraction from blood and saliva samples, collected at various stages of the Pelotas Cohort Studies, and subsequent DNA quantification using spectrophotometry and fluorimetry, are fundamental for genetic and epigenetic research. These efforts facilitate both national and international collaborations.

LabPAAB is equipped with:

A water preparation and ice production room
An autoclave and oven room
A material storage area
The Biorepository Room for Pelotas Birth Cohorts

For more detailed information about LabPAAB’s infrastructure, visit the National Research Infrastructure Platform MCTI

Biorepository

The participants of the Pelotas Birth Cohort Studies (1982, 1993, 2004, and 2015) are tracked throughout their lives. Each cohort collects biological samples from participants at various life stages, which are securely stored in a dedicated facility.

The Biorepository of the Pelotas Birth Cohort Studies was established to preserve these biological samples, aiming to investigate early determinants of chronic non-communicable diseases across the lifespan. This research is relevant for understanding epidemiological transitions and informing public health policies. During different follow-ups of the Pelotas Cohorts, samples of whole blood, digital pulp, umbilical cord, saliva, urine, feces, and hair have been collected. These samples are processed and preserved according to stringent protocols. The Biorepository is equipped with ultrafreezers (-80°C) and both vertical and horizontal freezers. Sample security and integrity are maintained through robust infrastructure and exemplary data registration and processing practices, in compliance with Resolution No. 441 of the National Health Council, dated May 12, 2011, which regulates studies involving biological sample collection from humans.

Projects that involve the collection of biological materials stored in the Biorepository are individually reviewed and approved by the Research Ethics Committee and/or the National Research Ethics Commission (CONEP). All collections are conducted with the consent of the participants and/or their guardians.