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Maurice predicts that paraffinisation, a traditional method for preserving brain tissue, will be phased out in the future. “Every preserving step takes a little away from the tissue, so we’re looking for simpler methods with fewer steps. Vacuum sealing is showing promise, but it comes with a cost element because it takes a long time to prepare and preserve specimens. We may also develop things like fresh tissue micro arrays, where we can do a lot of biochemical assays on dozens of brains simultaneously and get results from many different cases, all at the same time. This type of approach could reduce the amount of tissue used overall and improve the run-to-run variation.” To assist the growing demand for tissue suitable for genetic studies, the Brain Bank is also focusing on better ways to preserve RNA and DNA within the tissue. “Better preservation is not a project you ever finish; it’s an ongoing mission. Part of what we’re doing with RNA integrity is looking at different ways of actually housing the tissue to try and get the best out of it in a year or five years’ time.” In parallel to the ongoing evolution of preservation techniques, the bank has to distribute its stored resources carefully. Some types of brain tissue are turning out to be more in demand than others. “Sometimes we run out of certain areas of the brain. For example, Alzheimer’s disease hides in one of the smaller parts of the brain and Parkinson’s hides in another small area of the brain. This means these areas of tissue are used up more quickly. It also means we end up storing unneeded tissue for a long time; we can’t eliminate it to make room, because it may be valuable in the future.” For some of the world’s Brain Banks, having the freshest samples or the best RNA is not the driver. They produce a standardised product for a broad range of uses. But for our bank, excellence is everything. “The key for our Brain Bank is to stay ahead of the game by looking at what neurological researchers are using when they employ rodent tissue in a study. We have to try and match that need to human tissue, so that their research will be more relevant and valuable. One thing that’s different about our Brain Bank is that we have people here actively using the tissue. And that means we get the feedback we need to be as versatile as possible.” “Only by working together can we unlock the secrets of brain disease and help find cures to give people hope for the future. That’s what our work is all about and we never forget that.” Distinguished Professor Sir Richard Faull 10 Headlines