Brain Tumour Ireland is delighted to support RCSI in the establishment of its brain tumour biobank, which will encourage research aimed at individualised treatments and increasing survival rates for brain tumour patients.

Facilitated by the Departments of Neurosurgery and Neuropathology in Beaumont Hospital, every patient undergoing brain tumour surgery will be given the opportunity to consent to have their tissue included in the biobank.

By collecting brain tumour cells from patients, the biobank will enable new and targeted therapies for brain tumours to be examined in the lab using these cells. Only patients who consent, can have their tissue used in the biobank, and only tissue surplus to diagnostic requirements can be biobanked.

Speaking on behalf of Brain Tumour Ireland, Chairperson Natasha Roche said: “Brain Tumour Ireland is extremely pleased to be supporting this important biobank with such a prestigious educational and research institution as RCSI.

“This achievement is only made possible by the many kind donors who have raised money for us over the first three years of our existence, and we thank them most gratefully. It is our hope that the research supported by this biobank will lead the way for new and targeted therapies for brain tumours, and individualised treatments for patients. This is crucial in achieving increased survival rates for those diagnosed with a brain tumour.”

Prof Jochen Prehn, Director of the RCSI Centre for Systems Medicine and Science Foundation Ireland Investigator said: “We are very excited about this instrumental support provided by Brain Tumour Ireland. The biobank will enable us to analyse the molecular composition (or ‘building stones’) of brain tumours, and to use this knowledge to develop much needed, novel therapies for the treatment of brain tumours.”