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February 28, 2026Neurology1 citations

Inflammation, Limbic White Matter Microstructure, and Clinical Symptoms in Retired American Football Players With Repetitive Head Impacts

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OEOlivia M. EmanuelAMAnnalise E. MinerSLShannon Lee

Key Points

  • The research aims to explore the relationship between inflammation, limbic white matter microstructure, and cognitive symptoms in retired football players.
  • Analyzed plasma and cerebrospinal fluid inflammatory markers in former elite football players.
  • Assessed limbic white matter microstructure using neuroimaging techniques.
  • Examined cognitive function related to limbic system performance.
  • Elevated inflammatory markers in plasma and CSF link to poorer limbic white matter microstructure.
  • Worse limbic microstructure correlates with cognitive decline.
  • Findings suggest inflammation could contribute to neurodegeneration related to repetitive head impacts.

Abstract

In former elite football players, elevated plasma and CSF inflammatory markers were associated with poorer limbic WM microstructure, which in turn related to worse cognition. Given the limbic system's role in cognition and behavior, inflammation may be a modifiable target for RHI-related neurodegeneration. Limitations include the cross-sectional design and limited generalizability to other contact sports, lower levels of play, female athletes, or other RHI sources.

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Cite This Study

Emanuel et al. (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/69a285aa0a974eb0d3c0099dhttps://doi.org/10.1212/wnl.0000000000214646
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