Minimally Invasive Postmortem Brain Tissue Collection for Biobank Development in Neuropsychiatric Disease Omics Studies

• Grant number: 25/24043-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Program to Stimulate Scientific Vocations
• Start date: January 05, 2026
• End date: February 24, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Medicine - Pathological Anatomy and Clinical Pathology
• Principal Investigator: Paulo Hilário Nascimento Saldiva
• Grantee: José Jefferson Alves da Silva
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina (FM). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The investigation of neuropsychiatric diseases demands rapid postmortem brain tissue collection, as sample integrity declines quickly after death. These samples are indispensable for advanced molecular biology techniques that uncover the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying mental and neurodegenerative disorders. In Brazil, there is a critical shortage of suitable samples for such analyses. Establishing a brain biorepository with a short postmortem interval would be a strategic and pioneering step, positioning the country alongside leading international neuroscience centers. This project aims to develop and validate a standardized, minimally invasive protocol for human brain tissue collection within a short postmortem interval, creating a high-quality biorepository for omics research in neuropsychiatric diseases. The proposed methodology involves three targeted punctures using safe and straightforward anatomical access points: transsphenoidal, suboccipital, and superior approaches. An 8G bone biopsy needle (3.25 mm in diameter) will facilitate the procedure. These needles, equipped with a cutting edge and compatible with syringes, enable the aspiration of tissue fragments along an intracerebral path of approximately 2.5 mm in diameter, which will then undergo longitudinal sectioning. Half of the collected material will be allocated for histological and immunocytochemical validation, while the remaining half will be stored in the biorepository, frozen at controlled temperatures. Only samples that pass validation will be included in the final biobank.In addition to its scientific potential, this minimally invasive approach has significant ethical advantages. The preservation of the body's appearance, the reduced execution time, and the absence of extensive cranial opening favor the consent of families and respect cultural sensitivities associated with the mourning process.