Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 6, 2026
11:32
A Neuroscientific Approach to the Examination of Concussions in Student-Athletes
Published on: December 8, 2014
Apolipoprotein E genotype and concussion in college athletes
Ryan T Tierney1, Jamie L Mansell, Michael Higgins
1Department of Kinesiology, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. rtierney@temple.edu
Summary
College athletes with rare apolipoprotein E (APOE) alleles show a significantly higher likelihood of reporting previous concussions. This genetic factor may increase concussion risk, particularly for those with multiple head injuries.
Area of Science:
- Genetics and Sports Medicine
- Neuroscience
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene polymorphisms are implicated in various neurological conditions.
- Understanding genetic predispositions can inform injury risk assessment in athletes.
- Previous research suggests a link between APOE and neurological health, but specific associations with concussion history in athletes require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between specific apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene polymorphisms (E2, E4, and promoter) and a history of concussion in college athletes.
- To determine if carrying rare APOE alleles increases the risk of experiencing concussions.
Main Methods:
- A multicenter, cross-sectional study involving 196 college athletes (football and soccer).
- Data collection included a written concussion history questionnaire and saliva samples for APOE genotyping.
- Analysis focused on self-reported history of documented concussions and the presence of rare APOE genotypes.
Main Results:
- A significant association was found between carrying all three assessed rare APOE alleles and a history of concussion (odds ratio = 9.8).
- Carrying the APOE promoter minor allele was significantly associated with experiencing two or more concussions (odds ratio = 8.4).
Conclusions:
- Carriers of all three rare APOE alleles were nearly 10 times more likely to report a previous concussion, suggesting a potentially higher risk.
- Individuals with the APOE promoter minor allele showed an 8.4 times higher likelihood of reporting multiple concussions.
- Further research with larger sample sizes, particularly focusing on athletes with multiple concussions and multiple rare APOE allele carriers, is recommended.
