A - 26 AMPAR as a Sports Concussion Biomarker and Its Relationship to Neurocognitive Functioning in Collegiate Athletes

Abstract Objective This prospective controlled observational cohort pilot study investigated a potential blood-based biomarker [α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor (AMPAR)] and relationship to neurocognitive testing in collegiate athletes. Methods A multisport sample of 60 athletes (53% female; 44 contact, 16 non-contact controls) completed ImPACT provided blood samples at pre-season baseline within 4 weeks post-season. Plasma serum were processed for AMPAR peptides antibodies. Twelve did not complete all procedures excluded from the final analysis (final n = 48; 36 contact; 12 controls). Results Contact demonstrated greater increases antibodies compared controls (t(46) 3.24;p < 0.01). On testing, had faster reaction time than contact (p 0.05); however, this increased post season 0.01), with mean change (contact: M 0.06, SD 0.19; control: 0.00, 0.04) approaching significance (t(37.23) 1.54; p 0.15). Additionally, was correlated (r 0.37;p 0.05) antibodies, slowed related only Conclusions Serum antibody levels significantly group on athlete post-season only, showing both slower controls. No findings identified plasma peptides, possibly processing which could be done immediately study. Future research replication is needed; may represent concussion biomarker, clinical utility