We show that Notch signaling converges on the activation of Akt to inhibit apoptosis triggered by neglect, that is, the withdrawal of nutritional cues, and describe the molecular intermediates in this cascade. Our experiments reveal integral roles for the nutrient sensor kinase mTOR and its substratedefining protein Rictor, which regulates the activation of Akt for Notchmediated survival. Both biochemical approaches and the analysis of sitedirected mutants identify AktS473 activity as the downstream target of the NICmTORC2 signaling cascade.Specifically, we focus on the need for such biomarkers in the management of sportsrelated concussion, the most common cause of mild TBI in young individuals, to prevent longterm neurological sequelae due to concussive or subconcussive blows to the head.Key pointsBiomarkers of neuronal, axonal and astroglial damage could be used to diagnose mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) and predict clinical outcomes of patients with head traumaSuch biomarkers