Effects of repeated head impacts on brain health over time
Official title: Consequences of Exposure to Repetitive Head Impacts Across the Lifespan
Funded at Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-11133616 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how getting hit in the head repeatedly, like in contact sports or military service, can affect your brain health as you get older, especially in relation to memory problems and diseases like Alzheimer's, and it aims to help doctors better understand and diagnose these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $4,269,339 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1NS143015-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11133616 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced repetitive head impacts, particularly young athletes and military personnel.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced any head impacts or those with pre-existing neurodegenerative conditions unrelated to head trauma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how repeated head impacts, often experienced in contact sports or military service, affect brain health throughout a person's life. It focuses on the long-term consequences of these impacts, including cognitive decline and increased risk for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The study utilizes advanced 3D imaging techniques to analyze brain changes and aims to establish clearer diagnostic criteria for conditions like chronic traumatic encephalopathy. By examining brain tissue from a large repository, the research seeks to understand the mechanisms behind these health issues and their progression over time.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic methods and preventive strategies for individuals at risk of cognitive decline due to head impacts.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of head impacts on brain health, indicating that this approach is building on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston University Medical Campus
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mckee, Ann C. — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Mckee, Ann C.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.