Scientists from Boston University’s Alzheimer’s Disease and CTE Center have recently made significant strides in our understanding of brain atrophy linked to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).
Their groundbreaking work, published in the journal Acta Neuropathologica, reveals unique patterns of brain shrinkage that occur due to repeated head injuries.
The study highlights how such impacts primarily lead to degeneration at the base of the brain’s folds, known as the cortical sulcus.
Understanding CTE and Brain Atrophy
CTE is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that is often found in athletes who participate in high-contact sports.
It is marked by the buildup of tau proteins in the brain, which can have dire consequences on cognitive function.
Earlier models proposed that the areas where the brain’s cortex folds are particularly vulnerable to stress during fast head movements.
This latest research is the first to thoroughly analyze the degeneration patterns associated with CTE, establishing a direct link between repetitive head trauma and the loss of neuronal cells, brain shrinkage, and increased tau pathology within these cortical folds.
Moreover, the study documented significant atrophy in several brain regions, including the frontal cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus, mammillary bodies, and thalamus.
Key Findings of the Study
The research team examined brain tissue from 185 athletes with histories of contact sports, alongside a control group of 52 non-athletes.
Among their key findings were:
- A noticeable thinning of the cortex and a decline in neuronal density found in the folds of the frontal cortex, which became more pronounced in the later stages of CTE.
- A strong correlation between the duration of participation in contact sports and the extent of cortical thinning, indicating a potential cumulative impact of head trauma.
- Evidence that neuronal loss is affected by tau protein accumulation, while the processes that lead to cortical thinning may function independently of tau.
- Observations of alterations in synaptic proteins, suggesting an ongoing cycle of neuronal damage and repair in the brains affected by CTE.
Implications for Future Research
Dr. Thor Stein, a neuropathologist connected with VA and Bedford Healthcare Systems, and an associate professor in pathology and laboratory medicine, pointed out that the cortical sulcus is particularly vulnerable to head trauma, experiencing significant neurodegenerative changes.
He believes these findings could deepen our understanding of CTE’s progression and help identify potential early biomarkers for detection.
This research underscores the necessity of protective measures in contact sports.
Furthermore, it offers a valuable lens into the neurodegenerative processes that lead to the cognitive and behavioral symptoms often associated with CTE.
Source: ScienceDaily