One of the most rewarding and impactful ways to become involved in research at NYU Langone’s Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center is to participate in the Brain Donation Program.

For an overview of the program, please download our brain donation brochure. Those who are considering participating in this program can also review our FAQ with detailed information.

This program allows people with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, as well as some healthy older people, to donate their brains at the time of death. Brain tissue is among the most valuable assets in the quest to understand Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, and crucial findings about these diseases have been gleaned thanks to the generosity of those who choose to make this remarkable gift. A single donation can provide information for many studies, enabling researchers around the country to continue their efforts to understand Alzheimer’s disease and develop new treatments.

In addition to making a lasting contribution to research, brain donation can provide important information for donors’ families. Brain autopsy is the only way to definitively diagnose Alzheimer’s disease, which can run in families. Knowing whether a loved one had Alzheimer’s disease or a different type of dementia can help relatives make informed decisions about their own health care and plan for the future.

People who are currently participating or have participated in research studies at NYU Langone’s Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center are strongly encouraged to consider participating in the Brain Donation Program. For some of our studies, this consent is mandatory. Brain donation is handled with care and respect, and is completed by an expert team including a supervising neuropathologist. The process is not disfiguring and does not interfere with funeral arrangements. There is no cost to participate in the Brain Donation Program.

If you are interested in registering as a new donor, please call 212-263-6262. Our study coordinators will work closely with you and your family to explain the benefits of brain donation and answer your questions.

If you need assistance with a donation of a program participant, please call us at 212-263-6262 Monday through Friday, 9:00AM to 5:00PM, or call 347-949-1424 at any time. If you do not get a response within 30 minutes, please call Metropolitan Funeral Home at 1-800-332-1880 or 212-674-3630. To keep this information on hand, please download this information card.