Investigating the Role of Glymphatic and Orexinergic Systems in Repetitive Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Pathophysiology

Repetitive mild traumatic brain injury (RmTBI) is a global concern as it is common, under-reported and causes long-lasting symptoms. The glymphatic system, which clears waste from the brain during sleep, is likely impaired after RmTBI, causing waste accumulation and neurological dysfunction. Pain and sleep problems occur following RmTBI, implicating both the glymphatic system and the orexinergic system, which regulates the sleep-wake cycle and pain inhibition. Therefore, this thesis explores the relationship between the glymphatic system, orexinergic system, and RmTBI pathology. Overall, RmTBI caused structural changes in these systems and pain pathways. This helps us understand RmTBI pathology and develop therapeutics.