The Effect Of Different Exercise Modes On Serum Concentrations Of NF-L And BLBP

Sports-related concussion is difficult to diagnose due to subjective symptoms. Biomarkers may act as a diagnostic aid as some studies have shown that blood concentration increases with mild traumatic brain injuries. However, some biomarker serum concentrations may rise after exercise. This study's objective was to determine if exercise alone increased serum brain lipid binding protein (BLBP) and neurofilament light (NF-L) concentration. Concentrations were measured in rugby players, runners, cyclists, and non-athlete controls. In athletes, serum was collected pre-exercise and 0 hours, 0.5 hours, 1 hour, 24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours post-exercise. Concentrations of BLBP and NF-L were compared among and within athlete groups and to controls. BLBP was not altered by cycling (p = 0.573) or running (p = 0.275). Rugby players showed BLBP increases at 72 hours compared to baseline (p = 0.004). Rugby players had higher BLBP than runners at 72 hours (p = 0.021). There were no sex differences for BLBP. BLBP was not elevated in athletes compared to controls. NF-L was not (p > 0.05) altered within the rugby, running, or cycling groups. NF-L concentration was not different among groups. Female runners had higher NF-L at 0.5 hours compared to males (p = 0.035).