Experts at the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGI) human brain bank in Chandigarh have initiated the extraction of DNA from preserved brain tissue. The primary objective is to decode the mechanisms behind brain aging and explore ways to prevent its deterioration with age.
Sample Collection Across Age Groups
Sample collection is not limited to the elderly. Over the past five years, the brain bank has been accumulating samples from individuals across various age groups, ensuring a comprehensive dataset for research.
Research Goals
Professor Nandita Kakkar, leading the ICMR-funded project, explained that by analyzing DNA from these samples, her team aims to identify biological triggers that induce brain aging. Through the study of DNA and RNA isolated from high-quality specimens, researchers hope to gain insights into conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. "The goal is to develop strategies that could mitigate or even prevent these degenerative conditions from an early age," said Prof Kakkar.
Access for Researchers
The brain bank has established mechanisms allowing any eligible researcher to access the DNA samples. "The extracted DNA and tissue samples are available to external researchers. Anyone working on such an area can take DNA from us," Prof Kakkar added.
Repository Statistics
To date, 210 samples have been archived, including 160 perinatal/neonatal brains and 50 adult brains. High-quality DNA and RNA have been successfully isolated and preserved at minus 80 degrees Celsius from 60 cases. In addition to autopsy specimens, the bank also stores fresh frozen human brain tumor samples. "This is the only brain bank currently available in North India. It became operational in 2024," said Prof Kakkar.
Life Stage Studies
The repository includes brain sections ranging from children to the elderly, allowing researchers to study the organ's evolution and decay across different life stages.
Future Expansion
The brain bank is currently located in the Department of Histopathology but is set for a major upgrade. The operation will move to the newly opened Advanced Neuroscience Centre. The area where the bank is located also houses a museum. While a "cure" for aging may not yet exist, scientists at PGI are actively working toward that goal.
