Clinical Studies

To learn about other ongoing clinical studies supported by CSTE partner the Sports Legacy Institute, click here

LEGEND (Longitudinal Examination to Gather Evidence of Neurodegenerative Disease)

Participants in the LEGEND study take part in yearly telephone interviews as well as yearly online questionnaires. They also have the opportunity to provide a saliva sample for genetic testing. Both those with and without a history of concussions can participate in the LEGEND study. If you are interested in participating please contact Christine Baugh, Research Coordinator at cbaugh@bu.edu

DETECT (Diagnosing and Evaluating Traumatic Encephalopathy Using Clinical Tests)

This study is the first research project on CTE ever funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), with support from the National Institute of Neurologic Diseases and Stroke (NINDS), the National Institute on Aging (NIA), and the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD).  The ultimate goal of this study is to develop methods of diagnosing CTE during life through the use of a variety of tests, including MRI scans (such as diffusion tensor imaging), MRS scans (also known as a “virtual biopsy”), blood tests, and measures of proteins in spinal fluid.  Participants will also undergo neurological, psychiatric, and cognitive assessments, as well as genetic testing.  The study will include 150 former NFL players (ages 40-69) and 50 same-age “control” athletes who played non-contact sports.  Recruitment started in November 2011.  For more information or if you are interested in participating please contact Christine Baugh, Research Coordinator at cbaugh@bu.edu.

Travel for the DETECT study is being sponsored in part by JetBlue and the NFL Players Association.

See TV interview with Dr. Stern about the new DETECT study:

What We’re Talking About: Concussions and Professional Athletes: MyFoxBOSTON.com