The DataBase
Participation in the database requires, among other things,
an advanced MRI scan of the brain. Therefore, we need to verify that you can undergo MRI without any risk or discomfort.
Additionally, several criteria may disqualify you from participating.
To address these concerns, we have created this frequently asked questions (FAQ) page that provides relevant information about participation in our brain bank.
FAQ
Healthy individuals without known neurological conditions can participate in the brain database if they have filled out a preparatory questionnaire for an MRI scan and have received approval from the research team.
Pregnant women and soldiers on mandatory service are not allowed to participate in the Tel Aviv University brain database.
We will confirm each participant's eligibility for an MRI scan by verifying the following:
Fear of Enclosed Spaces: Participants should not have a fear of enclosed spaces. This fear can cause discomfort during the scan and may lead to stopping the procedure early.
Metal Objects: Participants must take off any metal items, like jewelry and piercings, before arriving for the scan. We cannot allow anyone with metal that could be dangerous to be scanned.
Tattoos and Permanent Makeup: Participants need to tell the research team about any tattoos or permanent makeup. This information helps us ensure their comfort during the scan.
Please note that these procedures are standard at the MRI Center at Tel Aviv University and may differ at other research institutes and imaging centers in Israel and around the world.
The MRI scan used in the Brain Database study is noninvasive and does not require any contrast agents to be injected.
Since MRI scans do not utilize ionizing radiation, they are considered very safe and can be performed multiple times a day if necessary.
We are committed to ensuring that you feel comfortable and well-informed throughout the entire process!
No, the MRI scan of our BrainBank is non-invasive and does not use a contrast agent.
The scanner environment can be challenging for individuals who experience claustrophobia. Please inform us before the scan if this applies to you.
Additionally, MRI scans are highly sensitive to movement, so you will be asked to remain still and avoid sudden movements during the procedure.
Please note that MRI scans are quite loud; however, we will provide earplugs to reduce the noise to a more manageable level.
You can wear your own clothes during the scans! Just make sure they don’t have any metal in them (a bracelet or the buttons on your jeans are totally fine).
The following cases are excluded:
Individuals who do not meet safety procedures (specifically those with non-removable metal implants)
Pregnant women
Soldiers on mandatory service
Individuals with a referral for an MRI or a neurological diagnosis
Individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Anyone with additional neurological or psychiatric diagnoses
Please note that these exclusions ensure the safety and well-being of all involved.
The MRI scan performed in this study is intended for research purposes only and does not involve the injection of a contrast agent; therefore, it should not be considered a clinical scan.
The MRI sessions may include different image contrasts, and for our study, we selected specific sequences that enable both structural and functional mapping. As a result, these sequences do not have any medical significance.
Payment will be transferred through the BIT or Paybox app, within one month after participation in the study ends.
