An Investigation Of The Potential Association Between Sports Concussion And Neurodegenerative Disease In Collision Sports Athletes
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$318,768.00
Summary
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is increasingly recognised as a risk factor for dementia. Sports concussion is the mildest form of TBI, but occurs frequently in contact sports, with some players sustaining multiple concussions during their career. Despite the increased attention on this topic, it is not known whether repeated concussions during an athlete’s career lead to a greater vulnerability or a greater risk for dementia later in life. This research program aims to investigate these concerns.
Investigating Treatments And Biomarkers Of Brain Concussion
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$428,065.00
Summary
Concussions are a serious and common international health concern, and repeated concussions can have severe long-term consequences on the brain. This project will aim to provide insight into this poorly understood disease projects and ultimately improve the management of concussions in human patients.
Towards Better Detection And Management Of Sports Concussion In Australia
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$200,027.00
Summary
The proposed program, in partnership with the AFL, will constitute the cornerstone of a foundation of research into current guidelines for the detection and management of sports concussion. The recent development of non-helmeted accelerometer technology has enabled real-time detection of head impact biomechanics in male and female Australian footballers. Outcomes will inform game day and long term management of sports concussion nationally (elite & amateur), and inform other similar sports
A Prospective Investigation Of Musculoskeletal And Vestibular Deficits Post-concussion In Adolescent Rugby Players
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$66,746.00
Summary
The primary aim of this thesis will be to investigate deficits in the musculoskeletal and vestibular systems in the acute and subacute periods following sport-related concussion injury in school level rugby union players.
A Mechanistic Approach To Therapy Development For Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy Using Small And Large Animal Models Of Concussion
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$492,844.00
Summary
Repeated concussion in athletes has recently been associated with the development of a neurodegenerative disorder known as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). While the neuropathology seems to be well characterised, the mechanisms associated with CTE development are not. This proposal will demonstrate that mechanically induced release of the neurotransmitter substance P accounts for much of the neuropathology in CTE, and will develop a novel therapy that will prevent such development.
“The Aftershock” – Understanding The Impact Of Traumatic Brain Injury On Depression And Emotional Regulation.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$678,771.00
Summary
The majority of people with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) experience problems with mood and emotional regulation. We will use imaging to measure brain changes from TBI, and link these to risk of depression, as well as behavioural and molecular alterations. Study cohorts will include former international footballers, junior sports people and emergency patients presenting with an acute TBI. The project will inform current policy and provide a strong scientific basis for future work.
Mild Traumatic Brain Injuries And Neurodegenerative Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$928,690.00
Summary
Repeated mild traumatic brain injuries (RmTBIs) have been linked to the development of neurodegenerative conditions. However, whether RmTBIs cause neurodegenerative disease, and the factors involved, requires further research. Using an innovative rat model, this project will examine whether RmTBIs cause long-term neurological changes resembling neurodegenerative disease. This cutting-edge project is highly relevant to human patients and will improve our understanding of these common injuries.