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University of Pennsylvania | School of Medicine | Neuropsychiatry Section

Brain Tissue Donation — Additional Information
Prospective Brain Donation Prospective brain donation is for those individuals who have decided in advance that they would like to donate their brain in the event of their death. This is a simple process that involves a brief telephone interview. For this type of donation the most important step is to speak with your family members and loved ones about your decision ahead of time. At the time of death, your next-of-kin will need to confirm your decision to donate and give their consent for the autopsy examination and for review of your medical records. For more information on prospective brain donation or to request a brochure please click here () or call (215) 662-7388 and ask for the Aging Research Coordinator.
Donation at the Time of Death As mentioned above, brain donation is a decision that is ultimately made by the family members of the donor after his or her death. If your loved one passes and you wish to have a brain autopsy for research conducted, please follow the simple steps below.

At the Time of Death or Impending Death:

  1. The donor’s next-of-kin or representative should call 1-215-662-4000 and ask for the “Psychiatric Research Autopsy Program.”
  2. The operator will take down your information (name and phone number) and immediately contact the investigators at our facility who will call you back.
  3. It is critically important to call the number above immediately at the time of death or beforehand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will participation in this program cost the study participant or the family anything?
There is no cost to the family. All costs are covered by funds dedicated to this research effort, including transportation services to and from the hospital.

What effect will the examination have on funeral arrangements?
A brain autopsy has no effect on funeral arrangements. Brain tissue removal is performed quickly and does not delay preparing the body for burial. It does not leave any visible marks and does not affect the ability to have a viewing or open-casket funeral.

Can we still use our family funeral director?
This study has no effect on your choice of funeral service provider. After autopsy, your chosen funeral home will conduct services and burial according to your wishes.

Will my name (or my relative’s name) be included in any presentations or publications?
All information and results from the brain donation are kept strictly confidential. No participant is ever identified by name in any research publication or presentation that results from the study.