Brain Scans on Former NFL Players Detect Abnormal Proteins Found in CTE

CTE, or Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, is a term used to describe brain degeneration that is likely caused my multiple head traumas. Similar to other neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's Disease, there is a progressive loss of brain cells; but in this case, there is a lack of amyloid plaque which is something that is commonly found in Alzheimer's Disease. Also unlike Alzheimer's, it is most commonly found in those who play contact sports, or those who suffer from frequent concussions. New developments are opening up on the condition, focusing on the grave consequences that may have not been considered previously. The most common effects of this condition include persistent rage, depression, and memory loss which has been observed in several former NFL players. In this article, Dr. Shamard Charles discusses the discovery of the abnormal protein - tau - that forms after the destruction of normal brain matter. While looking at PET scans of 26 football players, he found that the protein was more abundant in their brains than in the healthy person's. While it is unfortunate that players are afflicted with this harmful protein, it is important to understand so that scientists and doctors can work to repair the damage. There is no current guarantee that tau is linked to the development of CTE, but often, brains that are afflicted with CTE also contain the tau protein and vice versa. Unfortunately, much damage has been done in the past due to the lack of protective measures taken to prevent the development of CTE. A former University of Pennsylvania football player, Owen Thomas, committed suicide after developing severe depression from CTE that could not be reversed or treated enough to combat the mental illness. After this and other incidents such as it, researchers are spending more time and effort carrying on studies where PET scans are used to analyze the brains of high school, college, and professional athletes. However, PET scans are not always the best way to measure the magnitude of this condition so they are also looking into new technology related to accuracy of diagnosis and treatment. At this point, nobody can be given a definite diagnosis of CTE, but they are beginning to find that it may be able to be detected via spinal fluid. Ultimately, the best way to monitor this condition is by frequent mental and physical health examinations, and better access to gear that prevents severe head trauma.


While brain trauma and similar topics have not be discussed extensively in class, neurodegenerative diseases are a topic that has been mentioned. Their causes were briefly spoken about and their role in both genetics and the proteins/neurotransmitters in the the brain that can lead to its development. While it is unlikely that genetics plays a role in this, if mental illness or neurodegenerative diseases are in the gene pool, the symptoms from CTE may be much worse than if the genetic history were not present. While I worked in neurosurgery, there was a woman with very advanced Parkinson's Disease, another neurodegenerative disease, that received treatment in the form of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) which is basically a surgery where patients undergo a series of electrical impulses in the brain to block abnormal activity to slow the tremors. While this has not been done in CTE patients before, it could be a way to stimulate neurotransmitters and receptors to reactivate the pleasure centers in the brain. There are many exploratory techniques that neurosurgeons are using to reactivate parts of brain or to block certain parts to help neurodegenerative diseases. In my Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology course, we briefly discussed how trauma to certain organs can create irreparable damage to the cells, so this must be something to consider when looking at treatment for neurodegenerative diseases and how they may have developed. Similarly, prevention and early detection of mental illness is something that is discussed, just not in class, but in society within the past few years. An increasing number of people - college students specifically - have been suffering from mental illness that unfortunately can lead to suicide. While just recognizing the mental illness is important, the root cause must be investigated to create the best course of treatment. Additionally, follow through must take place to keep the condition under control.

https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/brain-scan-living-nfl-players-detects-abnormal-proteins-found-cte-n993086