The MCW Neuro-Oncology Brain Bank

Researchers from the departments of Radiology, Neurology, and Pathology at the Medical College of Wisconsin have created a unique bank to store both brain tissue and treatment information from patients affected by neurological disorders. This resource will make a variety of future research possible. We aim to better serve our patients by improving the accuracy of diagnosis and identifying the best treatments for patients like you or your loved one.

Our goal is to make this process go as smoothly as possible for you and your loved ones. Many patients and families have already chosen to participate in this unique bank at MCW. The research that has resulted from ongoing studies has been recognized internationally and is continuously being developed for improved insights on brain cancers.

It is important to have an open conversation with your doctor and your family to ensure they know and understand your wishes, so they are in a position to fulfill them. Whole brain donation is an important gift you can make to potentially improve the outcomes of other patients like you. Whether you are planning in advance or thinking about this near the end of treatment, we are here to help. Thank you for considering brain donation!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Choosing to be a part of the MCW Brain Bank can bring both purpose and peace of mind to a difficult situation. Your gift of brain donation will support ongoing research efforts aimed at the discovery, diagnosis, and treatment of neurological disorders. In addition to your support of research, an autopsy report will confirm diagnosis for your loved ones.

    With this important gift, you can rest assured that someday, others suffering from the same condition will have the opportunity to benefit from the research you have helped to make possible.

  • There are very few requirements to participate in this bank. Participants must be 18 years of age or older and suffering from a neurological condition. You must also be a current or previous patient at The Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin health network.

  • Brain collection is paid for and organized by the clinical and research staff after the patient has passed away. The patient’s Next of Kin is required to sign an autopsy request form to authorize our staff to perform either a brain only autopsy or a full autopsy. Tissue will then become part of the brain bank and an autopsy report will be provided.

  • To donate your brain, contact our team or your treating physician. They will provide you with addition information, which will include a consent form. Consenting to the brain bank allows our team access to your brain tissue after death, as well as relevant clinical information to guide future studies. After you have signed the consent form there is nothing else you need to do. Our team will work with your family and funeral home to acquire all that is needed.

    If you are the Next of Kin or Legally Authorized Representative of someone suffering from a neurological condition who is unable to sign the consent form due to escalating symptoms, you are able to fulfill their wishes by signing a modified consent form. Please let us know and we will provide the necessary documents.