Brain Ex Vivo
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Human brain slice research to model and advance understanding of disease within the brain (The Brain Ex Vivo Study)
IRAS ID
366091
Contact name
Christopher J A Cowie
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
10 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
This research study aims to improve our understanding of how conditions such as brain tumours, Alzheimer's disease and epilepsy affect the brain.
During some neurosurgery operations, small pieces of brain tissue are routinely removed so surgeons can safely reach the area being treated. This tissue would normally be discarded. With patients’ consent, we will use this leftover tissue for research.
In the laboratory, we will study the donated tissue while it remains alive for a short time outside the body (this is called “ex vivo” research). This allows us to observe how brain cells communicate, how inflammation develops, and how unusual electrical activity occurs, which can lead to seizures (fits).
There is growing evidence that brain tumours and some neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, may share similar biological processes. These include inflammation and changes in the way brain cells send chemical signals. We aim to further investigate these shared mechanisms.
In order to do this, we will grow small groups of tumour cells alongside the donated brain tissue . This helps us better understand how tumours interact with the surrounding brain and may allow us to test possible new treatments in a model that more closely represents the human brain.
Taking part in this study will not affect a patient’s treatment, surgery, or recovery. No additional procedures are required. All tissue samples will be coded to protect patient confidentiality.
The overall aim of this research is to improve laboratory models of brain disease, identify new targets for treatment, and support the development of safer and more effective therapies for future patients.
REC name
North East - Tyne & Wear South Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/NE/0130
Date of REC Opinion
29 Jun 2026
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion