新研究：反复头部冲击或致中青年运动员早期脑损伤

Core Findings - A new study funded by the National Institutes of Health indicates that repeated head impacts in contact sports can lead to early and lasting brain changes in some young and middle-aged athletes, potentially occurring years before the typical features of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) manifest [1] Research Analysis - The study analyzed brain tissue samples donated by athletes under 51 years old who had passed away, with a majority being former American football players [1] - Advanced techniques were used to track gene activity and perform single-cell imaging analysis, revealing common molecular characteristics of CTE, including tau protein deposits near small blood vessels and in deep folds of the brain [1] - The research identified other early brain changes, such as a reduction of approximately 56% in a specific type of neuron in certain brain regions that experienced significant impact during collisions, which is also where tau protein accumulates [1] - Notably, this neuron loss was observed even in athletes' brains where tau protein deposits had not yet been detected [1] - The findings suggest that neuronal damage may occur prior to the appearance of tau protein deposits, indicating a need for new methods to detect the effects of repeated head impacts on the brain [1] - The research lays the groundwork for developing interventions aimed at preventing serious neurodegenerative diseases like CTE [1]