iCNS updates tissue request workflow

11 August 2026

Human post-mortem brain tissue is indispensable for many research projects within the iCNS consortium. At the same time, this material is limited—especially for particular donor groups and brain regions. To support its responsible and effective use, iCNS has further structured its tissue request and review workflow.

Tissue applications are coordinated by the iCNS Tissue Facility within Work Package 1, in close collaboration with the Netherlands Brain Bank (NBB). The Tissue Facility is the central point of contact for researchers and manages the application process, from submission and review to communication of the outcome.

Requests are evaluated by the iCNS Tissue Advisory Board, which brings together scientific and operational expertise from across the consortium. The board includes Inge Huitinga, Inge Holtman, Jörg Hamann, Lot de Witte, Femke de Vrij and Payam Safavi. In its assessment, the board considers tissue availability and scarcity alongside the proposed study design, donor groups, brain regions, sample size and analysis plan.

When additional information is needed, the Tissue Facility coordinates the discussion between the applicant and the Advisory Board. Following approval, the Tissue Facility and the Netherlands Brain Bank organise the next steps, including donor and tissue selection, sample preparation and distribution.

This workflow promotes a transparent, efficient and scientifically informed allocation of the valuable brain tissue generously donated for research. The first request assessed through this process has now been approved for a study led by Maarten Kole.