Generation Scotland

Generation Scotland collects genetic, lifestyle, and clinical data from volunteers as a longitudinal family-based cohort for research into genetic, lifestyle and environmental determinants of physical and mental health.

Key Features:

• Genetic Data: Genotype array data are available for 20 026 (83%) participants.
• DNA Methylation Data: Blood-based DNA methylation (DNAm) data are available for 18 869 (78%) participants.
• Routine Health Record Linkage: Linkage to National Health Service datasets includes primary care, hospital attendance, prescription and mortality records for 93% (n=22 402) of the cohort.
• Multimodal Brain Imaging: Brain imaging data are available in 1069 individuals.
• Recontact Studies: Additional prospective data collection targets chronic pain, major depressive disorder and COVID-19.
• Cohort Expansion: Next Generation Scotland launched in May 2022 to expand by 20 000 additional volunteers aged 12+ years, with genotype and salivary DNAm array data from postal saliva samples.

Scientific Applications:

• Complex Disease Research: The cohort supports study of the genetic and environmental basis of common complex diseases including ageing, cancer, cardiovascular disease and mental health.
• Prospective Data Collection: Recontact studies enable additional data collection for specific conditions including chronic pain, major depressive disorder and COVID-19.

Methodology:

Participants completed a health questionnaire and attended an in-person clinic visit for collection of baseline data on lifestyle information, cognitive function, personality traits and mental and physical health. New participants in the expanded cohort complete online consent and questionnaires and provide postal saliva samples.