Ireland's first brain bio-banking network, the Dublin Brain Bank, was officially launched by sports commentator Jimmy McGee at RCSI's Smurfit Building in Beaumont Hospital, Dublin.

The new initiative will facilitate nationwide brain donation and will allow researchers and clinicians access to precious human brain tissue for research in devastating diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and motor neuron disease. While initially based in Dublin, it is hoped to expand it to other areas around the country in the future to create a National Irish Brain Bank.

Professor Michael Farrell, RCSI and Consultant Neuropathologist in Beaumont Hospital is responsible for the day to day running of the Dublin Brain Bank. He said: “By providing researchers and clinicians with much needed brain tissue, the network offers potential for improvements in diagnosis and treatment of patients. It will also play a significant role in informing and supporting those wishing to make a post mortem donation and their families. It is through their courage and generosity that will ultimately lead to the benefit of others in the future.”

Professor Frank Keane, President of RCSI, said: “RCSI is delighted to support the development of this much needed network. So many families in Ireland are affected by some of the most debilitating neurological diseases. The network's establishment brings a new coordination and coherence to the brain donation process in Ireland and offers a platform for experts to work together and share knowledge across the research and clinical community. Through this collaboration, this network will help turn first class research in the labs into therapies for patients.”