Our Laboratory
The Institute for Research and Development is equipped with a genetic research laboratory, which is capable of handling molecular genetic research. The laboratory was established in 2007 in collaboration with the Sri Lankan Twin Registry and King’s College London, UK. The lab was developed to support and collaborate with scientists and academics who wish to conduct their research within the country as the the Institute for Research and Development strongly oppose the export of genetic material abroad for research purposes and promotes conducting all genetic research in the locale where the genetic material was collected from. The lab is available for genetic research to all academics and personnel with keen interest in molecular genetic research.
The genetic laboratory is well equipped to perform a range of genetic and molecular biology related multidisciplinary research. We have established a unique biobank containing DNA and serum, of twins and singletons. We collaborate both nationally and internationally with well-established research institutes to carry out high quality result oriented research in the country.
Our Directive
- Carry out research projects with national importance and policy impact.
- Bring together academics & experts in molecular biology, biotechnology, & genetics.
- Establishing partnerships with local & international research institutions, universities & government organizations.
- Execute theoretical & practical education programs.
The Biobank
The IRD biobank is a unique repository consisting of Genomic DNA and serum of twins (both monozygotes and dizygotes) and a matching comparison sample of non-twins in the developing world. To our knowledge this is the first of its kind biobank establishment in Sri Lanka.
It was established along with the Colombo Twin and Singleton Follow-up Study (CoTaSS 2). Ethical clearance for this purpose was obtained from the ethics committees of Sri Jayawardhanepura University and Kings College London.
Consent was obtained from twins and non-twins participating in the CoTaSS 2 to store their blood for future studies. However, the samples will not be used for any specific study without obtaining fresh ethical clearance for specific projects from relevant ethics committees.
The goal of the IRD biobank is to create a national repository of bio-material on twins and higher order multiples. 3,000 plus samples of extracted DNA and serum is being stored in a large -80°C freezer, and this will continue to grow with future studies. Collected bio specimens will be used for cutting edge research which will give new insights into diseases burdening South Asia, leading to new methods of treatment and intervention in the future. Our plan is to establish capacity within the country to carry out these studies.
This allows scientists to study the causes and contributing factors of health conditions in communities. Without twins, this type of research would be nearly impossible to conduct. Such information can help improve the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of many health issues in Sri Lanka and other South Asian countries.
Whole Blood
Whole blood samples, from 2,583 twins & 900 singletons, collected during the Colombo Twin & Singleton Follow-up Study, are stored in EDTA tubes at -80°C for future DNA extraction.
Serum
3,483 serum samples collected during the Colombo Twin & Singleton Follow-up Study, are stored at -80°C for future serological studies.
DNA
DNA extracted from whole blood samples, are stored at -80°C for future genetic, GWAS and epigenetic studies.
Our Current & Future Endeavors
- Through the Colombo Twin and Singleton Follow-up Study (CoTaSS 2) genetic testing for zygosity determination will be used to validate a questionnaire on zygosity determination. This questionnaire was cross-culturally adapted and translated into Sinhala, and preliminary validation was done in the CoTaSS 1 study. Read the journal article.
- Two projects on plant genetics which includes sex determination and DNA barcoding are in the planning and grant application phase.
- Training courses for post A\L students, undergraduates, and professionals who wish to obtain hands on training related to molecular biology and genetics have been planned. These courses will be conducted by experts in the field and will consist of lectures and practical sessions.
The certificate program on Practical Skills in Molecular Biology and Genetics is designed to provide students a thorough knowledge of core concepts and practice of molecular biology and genetics for eventual services in the rapidly expanding areas of biomedical sciences and life sciences.
In-plant training (also termed, industrial training) provides undergraduates with laboratory research experience in molecular biology and genetics.
Selected students will have the opportunity of supporting the IRD mission, under staff researcher guidance, by participating in research.
A research volunteer position is awarded to individuals who are interested in performing tasks for, or providing services to, our genetics laboratory without monetary compensation.
TVEC Accredition
The Institute for Research & Development in Health & Social Care, is registered as an academic institute with the Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission, Sri Lanka under the program “Registration of Training Institutes Providing Tertiary Education or Vocational Training”. The TVEC is a government institute responsible for policy formulation, planning, quality assurance, coordination, and development of tertiary & vocational education in the country.
The registration certifies that our training program meets the standards specified by government. Subsequent guidance given by the TVEC will ensure the internal and external improvement in efficiency our training programs. All laboratory training programs offered by the Institute for Research & Development in Health & Social Care are registered separately, in order to obtain the ‘certificate level’ accredition.
Facilities For Private Hire
Lab Space for Your Research
1,500 ft2 laboratory space comes with administrative areas, bench tops, fume hoods, bio-safety cabinets, washing areas and chemical storage to meet your research needs. We offer the resources, time, space, reagents and supervision according to your need to support you to carry out your research at our laboratory facility at an affordable rate.
Ultra-low Freezer Facility for Rent
Our ultra-low freezers are ideally suitable for the storage of products at freezing temperatures to meet your industrial requirements. This facility is coupled with an advanced power backup system and secured by a 24 hour electricity supply. This is now available for external scientists as 50 L, 100 L, 200 L, and 400 L cubicle spaces for monthly, quarterly and annual payment plans at affordable rates. We are happy to advice you on the right choice of your ultra-low freezer requirements.
Liquid Nitrogen Plant DNA Extraction
Includes initial training for Liquid Nitrogen-based plant DNA extraction by laboratory technical staff, along with support & close supervision from laboratory research staff throughout the process. Contact us for quotation.
-20°C Freezer Storage Facility
Contact us for a quotation – [email protected]
The registration certifies that our training program meets the standards specified by government. Subsequent guidance given by the TVEC will ensure the internal and external improvement in efficiency our training programs. All laboratory training programs offered by the Institute for Research & Development in Health & Social Care are registered separately, in order to obtain the ‘certificate level’ accredition.
