Investigating how repeated concussions and heart health affect brain aging and behavior.

The effects of cumulative concussion, repetitive head impacts, and comorbid cardiovascular risk factors on MRI metrics of pathological aging and neurobehavioral functioning across the lifespan

NIH-funded research Medical College of Wisconsin · NIH-10889135

This study is looking at how mild brain injuries and repeated hits to the head can affect your brain and behavior as you get older, using MRI scans to see how these changes relate to your age and heart health.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMedical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Milwaukee, United States)
Project IDNIH-10889135 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research examines the long-term effects of mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) and repetitive head impacts on brain health and behavior throughout a person's life. It uses MRI technology to assess changes in brain structure and function, particularly focusing on how these changes are influenced by age and cardiovascular health. By analyzing data from various age groups, the study aims to uncover the connections between head injuries, brain aging, and cognitive decline, providing a comprehensive view of these issues over time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of concussions or repetitive head impacts, particularly those who are older or have cardiovascular risk factors.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced any head injuries or do not have cardiovascular risk factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of cognitive decline related to head injuries, potentially improving treatment and prevention strategies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown associations between head injuries and cognitive decline, but this study aims to provide a novel longitudinal perspective on these relationships.

Where this research is happening

Milwaukee, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.