The VA Biorepository Brain Bank (VABBB) is a human tissue bank that collects, processes, stores, and gives out research specimens for future scientific studies. The VABBB provides central nervous system (CNS) tissue and health information to scientists studying disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis(ALS; Lou Gehrig's disease), disorders of Veterans of 1990-91 Gulf War, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The VABBB is urrently enrolling personswith these and other neurological conditions. 

Scientists studying neurological disorders must compare brain tissue donated by people affected by these diseases with tissue from people who are not affected by them in order to understand the causes of these conditions. Yet, most brain banks, including the VABBB, have critical shortages of tissue from those without these brain disorders (otherwise known as "control tissue"). This is why obtaining brain tissue from those without brain disorders is also critical to research. 

Who can take part in the VABBB?

Any Veteran living in the United States may enroll in the VABBB. Some non-Veterans may also be eligible to enroll. For more information contact 866-460-1158 or VABBB