Brain’s Waste Disposal System Damaged in Pro Fighters

Key Takeaways

• The brain’s ‘waste disposal system’ might potentially be damaged in pro fighters who suffer repeat head trauma.
• This glymphatic system at first goes into overdrive to correct the problem, scans show, but then goes into decline.
• Spotting glymphatic damage early might support advice given to fighters and othre at-risk athletes.

MONDAY, Dec. 1, 2025 13:20:23 (HealthDay news) – High-tech neuroimaging of pro boxers and mixed martial arts (MMA) fighters is revealing potential damage to a system the brain uses to rid itself of waste.

“When this system doesn’t work properly, damaging proteins can accumulate, which have been linked to Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia,” explained study lead author Dr. Dhanush Amin, who conducted the study while at the University of alabama at Birmingham.

Repeat head trauma suffered by pro fighters has long been linked to short- and long-term brain damage.

New insights into the brain’s glymphatic system – charged with clearing the brain of built-up metabolites and toxins – might help in the early diagnosis of head trauma, he said.

“If we can spot glymphatic changes in the fighters before they develop symptoms, then we might be able to recommend rest or medical care or help them make career decisions to protect thier future brain health,” amin said in a news release from the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).

His team will present their findings this week at the RSNA annual meeting in chicago.

As the researchers explained, head trauma suffered during sports account for 30% of all brain injuries, and boxing and mixed martial arts account for many such cases.

Over time, repeat head injury has been linked to serious neurodegenerative and cognitive issues.