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Elon University

3 ARTICLES PUBLISHED IN JoVE

Medicine

A Neuroscientific Approach to the Examination of Concussions in Student-Athletes

Caroline J. Ketcham¹, Eric Hall¹, Walter R. Bixby¹, Srikant Vallabhajosula², Stephen E. Folger², Matthew C. Kostek³, Paul C. Miller¹, Kenneth P. Barnes¹, Kirtida Patel⁴

¹Department of Exercise Science, Elon University, ²Department of Physical Therapy Education, Elon University, ³Department of Physical Therapy, Duquesne University, ⁴Department of Sports Medicine, Elon University

There is great variability in an individual’s risk for concussion and their corresponding recovery. A multifaceted approach to concussion evaluation is warranted; including baseline testing of athletes before participation in sport and timely evaluation post injury. The goal of this protocol is to provide an appropriate multifaceted approach to examine concussions.

Biology

Isolation and Functional Analysis of Mitochondria from Cultured Cells and Mouse Tissue

Thomas Lampl¹, Jo A. Crum¹, Taylor A. Davis¹, Carol Milligan^2,3,4, Victoria Del Gaizo Moore¹

¹Chemistry Department, Elon University, ²Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Wake Forest School of Medicine, ³Neuroscience Graduate Program, Wake Forest School of Medicine, ⁴ALS Center Translational Science Unit, Wake Forest School of Medicine

Comparison of mitochondrial membrane potential between samples yields valuable information about cellular status. Detailed steps for isolating mitochondria and assessing response to inhibitors and uncouplers using fluorescence are described. The method and utility of this protocol are illustrated by use of a cell culture and animal model of cellular stress.

Biochemistry

Assessment of Mitochondrial Oxygen Consumption Using a Plate Reader-based Fluorescent Assay

Victoria Del Gaizo Moore¹, Gregory Haenel², Aiofe Judge¹

¹Chemistry Department, Elon University, ²Biology Department, Elon University

Assessment of oxygen consumption provides integral information about mitochondrial function. Using a phosphorescent probe with a fluorescent plate reader, accurate and reproducible data can be obtained easily without specialized equipment. This assay enables any lab to measure the oxygen consumption of isolated mitochondria and calculate respiratory control ratios.