Human Brain Collection Core (HBCC)

The mission of the Human Brain Collection Core (HBCC) within the National Institute of Mental Health's (NIMH) Division of Intramural Research Programs (DIRP) is to conduct and support research on the brain and behavior, with the goal of reducing the burden of mental illnesses. HBCC is a national resource, providing unique opportunities in mental health research.

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About our research

To conduct this research, we obtain human brain tissue and blood samples from deceased individuals diagnosed with mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse disorder, and those who died by suicide. We also obtain brain tissue and blood samples from individuals without a history of mental illness. The tissues are obtained with procedures approved by the HBCC Oversight Committee and by the NIH Department of Bioethics and only with the permission of next-of-kin.

We distribute samples to investigators approved by the NIMH Oversight Committee. We collect molecular and genetic data and disseminate the data to the scientific community. Information gained from this research will lead to better understanding of brain dysfunction in mental disorders and development of new therapeutic and preventive strategies.

The importance of brain tissue donation

Watch this brief video with Jill Bolte Taylor, Ph.D., a spokesperson for the Harvard Brain Tissue Resource Center, to learn why brain donation truly is the gift of hope.

HBCC in the media

Inside the NIH Brain Bank: IRP Group Supports Neuropsychiatric Research 
October 10, 2024 • I am Intramural Blog

Mental Health Research Needs More People to Donate Their Brains 
May 3, 2018 • Tonic