Largest Cannabis Brain Study Finds Memory Impairment
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of death and long-term disability in young people. However, research in this area remains limited in particular due to a lack of data concerning head injuries sustained by the young population. An innovative longitudinal study designed and conducted by The Podium Institute is harnessing advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques to uncover why some children recover worse than others after they have sustained a head injury, for instance through playing sport.
In emergency departments, clinical assessments such as computerised tomography (CT) scans focus on detecting life-threatening injuries. However, many children with a normal-looking CT scan still experience lasting symptoms, highlighting that important aspects of brain injury may be missed on standard imaging.
Using advanced MRI techniques, this new study will explore various aspects of brain damage, including injury to nerve fibres, disruptions in brain metabolism, and changes in functional connectivity between brain regions. These sophisticated neuroimaging measures will be combined with cognitive testing along with self- and parent-reported information on head injuries. The aim is to identify key MRI biomarkers that can reliably predict both clinical recovery and sports-related outcomes, such as time to return to sport.
Mr Tim Lawrence (Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Oxford University), consultant paediatric neurosurgeon and one of the study’s lead researchers, explained, ‘With growing concern regarding a potential link between mild or repetitive traumatic brain injury and long-term cognitive difficulties or even early dementia, there is a pressing need to identify the types of traumatic injuries that may pose a risk. Our study is a step towards better understanding of the mechanisms that underpin damage to the brains of children and adolescents suffering injury.’
Read the full story on the University of Oxford website.
more recommended stories
Multi-Cancer Early Detection Test Saves LivesA groundbreaking multi-cancer early detection test.
Breath Sensor for Chronic Kidney Disease DetectionIn a groundbreaking development, researchers have.
Vagus Nerve Stimulation for PTSD ReliefA pioneering clinical study from The.
Gut Microbiota Diet Score and Infertility: Surprising Link RevealedCan what you eat really impact.
Lung Cancer Outcomes Linked to PSG Genes in WomenResearchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer.
Osteoarthritis Genetic Targets Identified in Largest StudyIn a groundbreaking achievement, researchers have.
lncRNAs in Tumor Microenvironment Drive Cancer ProgressionThe tumor microenvironment (TME) is a.
Lyme Disease Symptoms: Why They Linger After TreatmentLyme disease symptoms that persist after.
Body Image in Young Women: Cultural Influences MatterA new international study led by.
Early Alzheimer’s Found Through Blood BiomarkersA new study published in Molecular.
Leave a Comment