Investigating brain changes from repeated head impacts in athletes
Understanding the Neuroanatomical Abnormalities of Repetitive Head Impacts
This study is looking at how repeated head injuries from playing football might affect the brains of former players over time, with the goal of finding ways to spot signs of a serious brain condition called CTE while people are still alive, so they can get better care and support.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11030954 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the long-term effects of repetitive head impacts (RHI) on the brains of former athletes, particularly American football players. It aims to identify neuroanatomical abnormalities associated with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a serious neurodegenerative disease linked to these impacts. By analyzing data from a large research network, the study seeks to develop biomarkers that can help diagnose CTE during a person's life, rather than postmortem. This could lead to better treatment options and interventions for those affected.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are former athletes, especially those who have played contact sports and experienced repetitive head impacts.
Not a fit: Patients who have not engaged in contact sports or have not experienced repetitive head impacts may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide earlier diagnosis and better management strategies for individuals at risk of CTE.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in identifying biomarkers for neurodegenerative diseases, but this specific approach to CTE is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- New York University School of Medicine — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Arciniega, Hector — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Arciniega, Hector
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.