Precision Measurement and Prevention of Mild Brain Trauma

Speaker

David Benjamin Camarillo, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Bioengineering
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Stanford University

Abstract

Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) affects 55 million people worldwide and can lead to neurodegenerative disease. My goal is to enable early detection and prevention of mTBI. We have pioneered sensing of head acceleration through the teeth, which has spawned a new industry of “smart” mouthguards. In my laboratory, we use this acceleration data to drive finite element models of the brain, combined with sensitive neuroimaging to discover mechanisms of mTBI. I will present preliminary data that suggests that blood brain barrier disruption, a potential initiator of neurodegeneration, is a common mechanism of mTBI in contact sports. Finally, I will present data on a technology we recently invented that has the potential to prevent mTBI when placed in helmets.

Bio

David B. Camarillo, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of Bioengineering, Mechanical Engineering and Neurosurgery (by courtesy) at Stanford University. Dr. Camarillo’s current research focus is on diagnosis and prevention of mild traumatic brain injury, including concussion. He has been awarded the Office of Naval Research Young Investigator Program award, among other honors. His research has been funded by the NIH, NSF, DoD, as well as corporations and private philanthropy. His lab’s work has been covered by NPR, the New York Times, The Washington Post, ESPN, and TED.com as well as other media outlets.