Brain Tissue Donation Program

General Information

The Brain Behavior Center of the University of Pennsylvania has been studying the changes that occur in the brain with psychiatric illness and during the aging process for over a decade. Due to the importance and success of this work, the Brain Tissue Donation Program has been continually supported by the National Institutes of Health. The purpose of this program is to better understand how psychiatric illnesses and the aging process affect the anatomy and chemistry of the brain. For example, recent studies of brain tissue obtained at autopsy from individuals with schizophrenia have identified a number of structural and molecular changes in their brains. As we discover what these changes are, we will make progress towards new and better ways to prevent and treat these brain disorders.

Brain Tissue for Scientific Research

We invite you to participate in our study of brain and behavior in healthy people and in people who have a brain disorder. The donation of brain tissue for research is a precious and special gift. By making a donation you will increase our understanding of how the brain works and help identify the causes of brain disorders. Future generations will benefit from this generous gift, as research will lead to more successful treatment and prevention of brain disorders.

Making a Donation

Eligibility
For our current research study, we accept brain tissue donations from any individual 18 years or older living within a 3-hour drive of Philadelphia, who meets at least one of the following criteria:

• Healthy individuals with no psychiatric or neurological disorders
• Individuals with a brain disorder
• Family members of individuals with a brain disorder

We are especially interested in individuals who carry a diagnosis of schizophrenia or other severe psychiatric disorders.

Learn More

Click here to learn about the two types of brain donation and to read some Frequently Asked Questions.