Investigating blood biomarkers for Alzheimer's risk after concussions.
Administrative supplement to Exosome Biomarkers in concussion and Alzheimer's.
This study is looking at how having multiple concussions might raise the chances of developing Alzheimer's disease later on, especially in athletes, and it aims to find specific blood markers that can help predict brain health issues after these injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10939196 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how repeated concussions, particularly in athletes, may increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. By studying a unique group of NCAA Division I athletes, the research aims to identify reliable blood biomarkers that can predict long-term brain health issues following multiple mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBIs). The team will analyze exosomes derived from neurons and astrocytes to detect specific pathological changes associated with Alzheimer's. This innovative approach seeks to uncover biological mechanisms linking concussions to Alzheimer's risk.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include athletes aged 21 and older who have experienced multiple concussions.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced concussions or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of predictive blood tests for Alzheimer's disease risk in individuals with a history of concussions.
How similar studies have performed: While there is ongoing research into biomarkers for Alzheimer's, this specific approach using exosomes in the context of sports-related brain injuries is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Granholm-Bentley, Ann-Charlotte Esther — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Granholm-Bentley, Ann-Charlotte Esther
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.