Twenty-first century brain banking: at the crossroads

Area of Science:

• Neuropathology
• Neuroscience Research
• Biobanking

Background:

• Brain banks are essential resources for advancing research, medical diagnostics, quality control, and teaching, particularly for neurodegenerative diseases.
• Declining autopsy rates increase the reliance on brain banks for critical taxonomic references and research drivers.
• This article reviews landmark papers and discusses professionalization of brain banking standards.

Discussion:

• Ethical principles and a code of conduct are crucial for safeguarding brain bank operations.
• Sustainability of human brain tissue resources faces challenges from financial pressures and increased public ethical expectations.
• Rigorous international audits are proposed for brain bank registration to ensure standards, especially for commercial tissue distribution.

Key Insights:

• Transparency, accountability, and honesty are mandatory for successful brain banking and optimal tissue utilization.
• Access to brain bank resources should not be influenced by commercial interests or private funding.
• Maintaining public trust through ethical practices is paramount for securing continued brain donations.

Outlook:

• International collaboration and adherence to strict ethical guidelines will shape the future of brain banking.
• Addressing financial pressures and public expectations is key to ensuring the long-term viability of these vital research resources.
• Public engagement and trust are essential for increasing the number of control brain donations needed for comprehensive research.