A study in Neurology Advisor found that for active and retired professional fighters exposed to repetitive head impacts, blood plasma measurements of the biomarkers GFAP and NfL “may help identify those who are at risk for progressive regional brain atrophy and cognitive decline.”

A paper published in the Journal of Neurotrauma found that children with persistent symptoms had imaging “evidence of ongoing microstructural reorganization or neuroinflammation,” highlighting the importance of delaying a child’s return to play following a concussion if symptoms are persisting.

A study published in the Journal of Neuroinflammation found that athletes with PPCS due to sports-related concussions (SRC) have elevated levels of inflammation in the brain. Of 27 cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers of inflammation tested for, eight were significantly higher in athletes with PPCS compared to healthy controls.