Impact of repeated head hits on brain health in young athletes
Subconcussive neurodegenerative progression in adolescent athletes
This study looks at how small hits to the head, which happen a lot in contact sports, might affect the brain health of young athletes, helping us understand the risks and create safety guidelines for them over the next four years.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Trustees of Indiana University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bloomington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10991693 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how repeated subconcussive head impacts, which are common in contact sports, affect the brain health of adolescent athletes. It focuses on understanding the long-term effects of these impacts on neural integrity and function during critical periods of brain development. By analyzing blood biomarkers and brain imaging, the study aims to identify potential risks and establish safety protocols for young athletes. The research will follow participants over a four-year period to assess changes in brain health related to their sports activities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescent athletes aged 12 to 20 who participate in contact sports.
Not a fit: Patients who do not participate in contact sports or are outside the age range of 12 to 20 may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved safety protocols and interventions to protect young athletes from long-term brain damage.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated potential risks associated with subconcussive impacts, but this study aims to provide more definitive insights into their long-term effects, making it a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Bloomington, United States
- Trustees of Indiana University — Bloomington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kawata, Keisuke — Trustees of Indiana University
- Study coordinator: Kawata, Keisuke
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 below.