Who We Are

The Brain Endowment Bank is a Brain Biorepository of over 500 brains.  We are dedicated to supporting basic and clinical researchers, who study the causes of brain disorders and the effects of aging.  Advances in molecular genetics and pathology make it possible for researchers to identify causes and cures for brain disorders such as Parkinson’s Disease and related movement disorders, Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias, Schizophrenia, Alcohol and Drug Dependence, Major Depression, and other neurological and psychiatric conditions. With over 50 million Americans affected by brain disorders and at some time in their lives and one–in-four Americans suffering a brain-related disorder, a full understanding of these types of illnesses will lead to prevention, new treatments or hopefully, cures.

The Brain Endowment Bank is one of the largest brain tissue resources in the State of Florida.  The program was established in 1986 at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.  The biorepository has grown over the past 20 years, now cryopreserving over 500 brains with additional 800-registered living donors, who have consented to brain donation after death.

The Brain Endowment bank distributes brain tissue specimens to scientists worldwide who are investigating neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases, as well as to scientists involved in ongoing studies on the affects of aging.  One brain donated to research can support the work of many neuroscientists.  We consider each brain donation a precious and invaluable research resource.

We consider donors and family members as visionaries, offering up their most precious gift to support Neuroscience research.