Established in 2008, the Neurodegenerative Disease Brain Bank (NDBB) serves as a repository for nervous system tissue donated for research purposes. The brain bank performs comprehensive neuropathological analyses of patients who participated in clinical research during their lifetime and provides tissue to leading investigators worldwide.
Why Donate?
Brain donation offers individuals the opportunity to contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge about neurodegenerative diseases and healthy aging. By analyzing donated brain tissue, researchers can:
- Obtain a definitive diagnosis of the underlying causes of dementia, which cannot currently be determined with absolute certainty through clinical evaluation alone.
- Develop new treatments and diagnostic tools for neurodegenerative diseases.
Families also benefit from brain donation by learning valuable information about their loved one’s illness after an autopsy is completed. UCSF neurologists share the autopsy findings with families, and many find the final diagnosis provides clarity and emotional closure.
At UCSF, we honor the generosity of donors and treat all tissue, donors, and families with care and respect.
Who Can Be a Brain Donor?
Patients and research participants affiliated with the UCSF Edward and Pearl Fein Memory and Aging Center (MAC) are eligible for brain donation through the MAC Autopsy Program.
Due to resource constraints, we are unable to accept donations from individuals not affiliated with the MAC. However, we are happy to provide referrals to other brain donation programs.
How is the Tissue Used?
Donated tissue plays a critical role in advancing research into neurodegenerative diseases. Studies using donated tissue include:
- Experiments conducted within the NDBB.
- Research performed in laboratories worldwide, where leading investigators request materials from the NDBB.
These studies help researchers develop new treatments, enhance diagnostic tools, and improve understanding of neurodegenerative diseases.
Planning for Brain Donation
Planning for brain donation in advance is important. Early enrollment allows for smoother coordination and may reduce the emotional stress families experience at the time of a loved one’s passing.
While enrollment can occur at the time of death, we encourage individuals to contact us as early as possible to learn more about the program and discuss details.
Contact Information
For questions or to begin the planning process, please contact the MAC Autopsy Program. General inquiries can be made during business hours. For urgent needs, particularly near or at the time of death, the autopsy coordinator is available 24/7.
Autopsy Coordinator
Phone: 415.476.1681
Email: [email protected]
24/7 Pager: 415.719.8281
By donating to the Neurodegenerative Disease Brain Bank, you contribute to life-changing research that benefits patients and families affected by neurodegenerative diseases.
