Join The Largest
Brain Database In Israel
Tel Aviv University is in the process of establishing Israel's largest brain database, which will include 25,000 healthy volunteers. This comprehensive database will integrate information on brain function, physiological metrics, and personality traits.
The extensive data collected will enable researchers to conduct groundbreaking studies, enhance our understanding of the healthy Israeli brain, and serve as a control for studying the structure and function of the brain in various neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, leveraging artificial intelligence tools will lead to significant advancements in science, medicine, and research.
As a participant in the database, you will receive:
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A unique insight into your brain!
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A symbolic payment of 150 NIS for your participation
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Access to database results, which will be periodically updated
through a dedicated app (currently in advanced development).
Research
The Tel Aviv University Brain Bank contains detailed information about brain activity and structure, as well as physiological and personality data. By combining all this information, we can conduct a broader analysis and accurately characterize the local population in various aspects, including social, economic, and political factors.
Each individual possesses a unique set of traits and characteristics. To explore the question of "what the Israeli brain looks like," we need to recruit as many participants as possible for our database, which will contribute both to scientific research and healthcare.
The study consists of three phases:
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Online Personality Questionnaire
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Physiological Measures that will be taken shortly before the MRI scan
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MRI Scan of the Brain - a non-invasive hour-long procedure that includes both structural and functional imaging
Phases 2 and 3 will be conducted in a single session on the Tel Aviv University campus, while Phase 1 can be completed from home or any location of your choice.
Can I join The Brain Bank?
The study will take place in a single session on the Tel Aviv University campus, during which a non-invasive MRI scan will be conducted. MRI is an imaging technique that uses a strong magnetic field along with radio wave radiation (non-ionizing radiation), making it a very safe method. However, there might be cases where we are unable to recruit participants:
Fear of enclosed spaces
The MRI scan can be quite noisy (we provide dedicated earplugs for this purpose). It takes place in a cylindrical chamber, which may be an uncomfortable experience for individuals who have a fear of enclosed spaces.
These individuals might find it challenging to complete the scan. We do not wish to cause you any discomfort or distress; therefore, if you experience this fear, we regret to inform you that you will not be able to participate in this study.
Neurological background
The current brain database includes only participants without any neurological conditions. Neurological conditions encompass both clinical diagnoses, such as Parkinson's disease, and psychiatric diagnoses, including ADHD, depression, and PTSD. Additionally, individuals who require a diagnostic or clinical MRI scan are not eligible to participate in the study.
It is important to emphasize that the scans conducted will not be used for diagnostic purposes and will not be interpreted as medical assessments. They are strictly for research purposes and do not involve the use of contrast agents.
Metals and MRI scans
MRI scans are conducted in a strong magnetic field. Therefore, only individuals without metal in the scan area (specifically, head and Neck) can participate in the study.
For instance, individuals with permanent makeup or tattoos on the neck or head will not be eligible. This also includes those with piercings or non-removable jewelry. Additionally, if you have had a metal component implanted during any surgical procedure (such as a pacemaker) or have been exposed to metal objects that cannot be removed (like welding materials or shrapnel), you will not be allowed to participate.
