Advancing Understanding of Psychiatric Illness Through Brain Tissue Research


About the Southwest Brain Bank

The Southwest Brain Bank (SWBB) is a non-profit research organization committed to understanding the human brain and improving treatments for psychiatric disorders.

What We Do:

  • Collect brain tissue from individuals with psychiatric illnesses and healthy controls.
  • Study donated tissue to explore how the brain works and how it changes in psychiatric conditions.
  • Distribute brain tissue and anonymized medical records to researchers nationwide.

Why Brain Tissue Research Matters

  • Understanding the Brain: Brain tissue allows scientists to investigate the biological changes associated with psychiatric conditions.
  • Driving Innovation: Research using brain tissue contributes to new diagnostic methods and treatment advancements.
  • Essential Contributions: Donations from individuals with and without psychiatric illnesses are critical to this work.

How It Works

  1. Donation: Brain tissue is donated by individuals with psychiatric disorders and healthy controls.
  2. Research Process: Scientists study the donated tissue to gain insights into brain function and changes caused by mental health conditions.
  3. Anonymization & Distribution: Donor information is anonymized, and tissue samples are provided to qualified researchers across the country.
  4. Impact: Research outcomes enhance understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of psychiatric disorders.

Get Involved

For more information about the Southwest Brain Bank or how to support its mission:
Contact Us:

Toll Free: 1-833-811-0013
Email: swbb.elp@ttuhsc.edu

Research at the Southwest Brain Bank

Southwest Brain Bank
Texas Tech Health El Paso
Department of Psychiatry
5001 El Paso Drive
El Paso, TX 79905

Toll Free: 1-833-811-0013
e-Fax: 915--215-8820
Email: swbb.elp@ttuhsc.edu; gvidalma@ttuhsc.edu; Javier.vargas@ttuhsc.edu;