UCSF pioneered agnostic, CLIA-certified CSF mNGS for hard-to-diagnose CNS infections, frequently identifying rare brain viruses. The institution is recognized for its top-tier neurology rankings and extensive clinical trial activity.

Johns Hopkins integrates neurology, infectious diseases, and critical care to advance diagnostics and care for encephalitis and related conditions. The institution has a strong publication record in neuro-HIV and Zika-associated neurologic disease.

The institution is involved in research related to rare brain viruses, particularly through autopsy samples and lumbar punctures. It has a strong focus on neurological pathology.

The institution is recognized for its ethical oversight in clinical research and contributes to the understanding of neurological diseases, including rare brain infections.

Hospital Lainz is known for its archival research on neurological conditions, including rare brain viruses, and contributes valuable data to the field.