Biological changes found in rugby players who suffered multiple concussions

Rugby balls on a field. Retired players who have suffered multiple concussions are more prone to developing MND. Picture: ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan

Retired rugby players who have suffered multiple concussions have biological differences that may make them more prone to developing motor neurone disease (MND) and other conditions, scientists have said.

Researchers discovered that players who have had five or more concussions during their careers have higher levels of certain proteins in their blood that are linked to conditions including MND and Alzheimer’s disease.