BrainNet Europe tackles brain tissue research Since the 19th century, scientists have performed autopsies on human brains to better understand the pathogenesis of central nervous system (CNS) disorders. But while methodological advances in brain banking have made their mark in the research world, more work is needed. Cl... Since the 19th century, scientists have performed autopsies on human brains to better understand the pathogenesis of central nervous system (CNS) disorders. But while methodological advances in brain banking have made their mark in the research world, more work is needed. Clearly, the collection of human brain is key, and BrainNet Europe (Network of European Brain and Tissue Banks for Clinical and Basic Neuroscience) aims to provide the solutions. This Network of Excellence, funded by the EU in the Sixth Framework Programme's Life Science Programme with €7.74 million, is a consortium of brain banks active across Europe. Comprised of 18 full member brain banks, 1 associated brain bank and the project management and PR group GABO:mi, BrainNet Europe targets 6 strategic objectives, including promoting brain banking as a research resource for European neuroscience, determining the limits of usability of human post-mortem brain tissue for advanced molecular techniques, and fuelling cooperation with neuroscience centres around the globe. BrainNet Europe believes that strong research, which is international in scope, is contingent on the availability of high quality brain tissue samples that are clinically and neuropathologically validated to the highest standards. Just as significant is the availability of 'normal control material', the project partners say. Launched in 2001, BrainNet Europe has succeeded in bringing together brain banking experts and leading institutes to make the quality of European brain banking a global benchmark, the partners say. Moreover, brain bankers, clinicians and molecular biologists from across Europe are determined to work together to ensure a fruitful outcome. The project partners say the concentration of knowledge in brain research is unique in Europe and is leading the way in brain research, both regionally and internationally. BrainNet Europe is also determined to fuel quality control, specifically by defining 'gold standards' in tissue sampling practice and neuropathological diagnostics, as well as by conducting inter-laboratory studies to harmonise neuropathological diagnostics throughout Europe. In a related development, BrainNet Europe is organising the second international conference on Human Brain Tissue Research, scheduled to take place on 10-12 December 2008 in Munich, Germany.
