A series of brain scans are seen in this undated file image. CTV NEWS



A unique Canadian research initiative is aiming for a significant breakthrough in tackling a brain disorder believed to stem from repetitive head injuries, typically detectable only posthumously.

At Toronto’s Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Scientific Director Neil Vasdev expresses optimism about the potential of his team's work to diagnose chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) while individuals are still alive. Vasdev emphasizes the transformative impact such early detection could have on halting the progression of the disease, offering hope to countless individuals globally.

CTE, previously predominantly associated with deceased athletes like football and hockey players, as well as military veterans, has been linked to the accumulation of a specific protein, tau, around blood vessels in those with a history of significant repetitive head impacts (RHI). This protein variant bears resemblance to the tau seen in Alzheimer’s patients and can lead to severe cognitive impairments, including depression and suicidal tendencies.

Presently, diagnosing CTE in living patients remains an unmet challenge. However, Vasdev and his Canadian research team at CAMH are endeavoring to change this narrative. Their approach involves utilizing a radioactive tracer, administered intravenously, which binds to the target protein. Through positron emission tomography (PET) imaging, doctors can visualize these proteins in the brain, providing insights into the disease's presence.

The team's optimism centers on a novel radio-pharmaceutical designed to detect CTE-specific tau protein, with upcoming human trials in Canada set to evaluate its efficacy. Samantha Bureau, International Research Director at the Concussion Legacy Foundation, underscores the significance of such advancements, particularly for individuals grappling with suspected CTE and the uncertainties surrounding their condition's origin.

Success in this study could herald improved treatment prospects, offering avenues for altering the disease's trajectory. Vasdev's personal connection to the cause, rooted in his mother's dedication as a Canadian military veteran and her commitment to CTE research, fuels his passion for the project. He envisions this research not only benefiting veterans but also diverse communities across Canada.

In Vasdev's view, the ability to diagnose CTE during life holds the promise of proactive intervention strategies, treatment modalities, and ultimately, disease prevention. This endeavor represents not just a scientific pursuit but a deeply personal mission with the potential to reshape how society addresses the impact of head injuries on cognitive health.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

You may also like

Fire Ravages Homes, Forces Evacuations in Eastern Newfoundland

A wildfire in eastern Newfoundland forced residents from two small communities to evacuate on Thursday. The fire, which started in....

India-Pakistan Tensions Rattle South Asian Diaspora in Canada

Tensions between India and Pakistan have triggered unease within Canada's South Asian community. Following a deadly missile strike that killed....

Canada Issues Urgent Travel Advisory For India Amid Rising Tensions

On May 7, 2025, the Government of Canada released an urgent travel advisory for India. The warning follows escalating military....

Frost Advisory Issued For Parts Of The GTA As Temperatures Swing

Environment Canada has issued a frost advisory for several areas of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). This advisory affects northern....

FBI Probes 250 Cases Linked To Online Teen-Targeting Group '764'

FBI officials are growing more worried about a dangerous network of online predators who are targeting teenagers. These predators befriend....

Trump Appoints Fox News Host Jeanine Pirro As Interim U.S. Attorney For DC

 President Donald Trump has announced that he will appoint Fox News host and former prosecutor Jeanine Pirro as the interim....

New U.S. Bill Offers Longer Stay For Canadian Snowbirds

A new bill, introduced on April 29, promises to change the rules for Canadian snowbirds who spend part of the....

Bill Gates Plans To Donate Most Of His Wealth By 2045

Bill Gates has made a major announcement. He plans to give away 99% of his wealth in the next 20....

Ex-Chief Justice to Review the B.C. Festival Safety After the Vancouver Tragedy

The British Columbia government has launched a swift review into public event safety following a deadly festival tragedy. The move....

Canada’s Leaders Gear Up for Talks Amid Economic Challenges

On June 2, Prime Minister Mark Carney will meet with Canada’s premiers in Saskatoon to discuss strengthening the country’s economy....

Ranj Pillai Steps Down as Yukon Premier, Reflects on Journey

Before deciding to run for premier of Yukon in 2022, Ranj Pillai shared an insightful conversation with his son. They....

Lost Votes Scandal: 800 Ballots Misplaced in B.C., Election Canada says

Elections Canada revealed that over 800 special ballots from Canada’s recent federal election were mistakenly left behind in a B.C.....