CTE, tau protein plaques, and strange behavior

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SUMMARY

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) is a rare neurodegenerative condition characterized by the accumulation of tau proteins in the brain, leading to severe behavioral changes. Notable cases, including Jr. Seau and Chris Benoit, highlight the tragic consequences of CTE, which manifests as memory loss, aggression, confusion, and depression, ultimately resembling Parkinson's disease symptoms. Current understanding of CTE physiology indicates that repeated head injuries contribute to tau protein buildup, resulting in neurodegeneration. The comprehensive study "Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy in Athletes: Progressive Tauopathy following Repetitive Head Injury" by Ann C. McKee, MD, and Robert C. Cantu, MD, provides further insights into this disorder.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of neurodegenerative diseases
  • Familiarity with tau protein pathology
  • Knowledge of the effects of repetitive head injuries
  • Basic grasp of CTE symptoms and progression
NEXT STEPS
  • Read "Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy in Athletes: Progressive Tauopathy following Repetitive Head Injury" for in-depth analysis
  • Research the relationship between tau proteins and neurodegeneration
  • Explore the impact of repetitive head injuries in contact sports
  • Investigate treatment options and preventive measures for CTE
USEFUL FOR

Medical professionals, neuroscientists, sports health researchers, and individuals interested in the effects of head trauma on brain health will benefit from this discussion.

gravenewworld
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So how exactly do tau plaques resulting from CTE cause strange behavior? Jr. Seau was found dead due to suicide, several hockey enforcers have died violently or due to drug overdoses just recently, and Chris Benoit murdered himself and his whole family. What is the understood physiology behind this that is known to date?
 
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Please note that when broaching an unusual topic it is practical and polite to post a brief explanation of what you are talking about :smile:

As it stands Chronic traumatic encephalopathy is a very rare condition (less than 50 cases reported). It seems that damage to the brain, especially over time, results in an accumulation of tau proteins which lead to neurodegeneration. The symptoms of this include memory loss, aggression, confusion, depression and eventually Parkinson like symptoms.

For further reading this paper is quite comprehensive on the symptoms and progression of the disorder.

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy in Athletes: Progressive Tauopathy following Repetitive Head Injury
Ann C. McKee, MD, Robert C. Cantu, MD, et al (2010)
 

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