Can we finally spot CTE before death? new study hopes to find out

NCT ID NCT06860828

ENROLLING_BY_INVITATION Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Boston University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study is trying to find ways to diagnose chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in living people. Right now, CTE can only be confirmed after death. Researchers will study 350 former college and professional football players, using memory tests and other biomarkers. The goal is to better understand the condition and pave the way for future treatments.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to

If successful, this could lead to the first reliable way to diagnose CTE in living people, enabling future research on prevention and treatment.

What could go wrong

This is an observational study, not a treatment trial. It may not produce a diagnostic tool that works outside this specific group of former football players.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Alzheimer disease Brain Injuries, Traumatic Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy dementia pugilistica traumatic brain injury

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • 1Florida ADRC, University of Florida

    Gainesville, Florida, 32610, United States

  • Banner Alzheimer's Institute (BAI) and Mayo Clinic Arizona

    Phoenix, Arizona, 85006, United States

  • Boston University Alzheimer Disease Research Center (ADRC)

    Boston, Massachusetts, 02118, United States

  • South Texas ADRC University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio

    San Antonio, Texas, 78229, United States

  • University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Alzheimer Disease Research Center (ADRC)

    San Francisco, California, 94143, United States