Research

Cumulative psychosocial stress across the lifespan, particularly early-life stress in childhood and adolescence, is a major risk factor for many psychiatric disorders. In this translational project, we investigate how stress shapes the immune system and how resulting immune changes influence behavior. We use cutting-edge molecular techniques (e.g., multicolor flow cytometry, omics, cell-type specific manipulations), neuroimaging approaches, employ behavioral readouts with translational validity, and work with both preclinical models and human cohorts.

Neuroimmune mechanisms of stress vulnerability

and resilience across the lifespan

Neuroimmune contributions to the pathophysiology

of substance use disorders

Substance use disorders are increasing and have substantial impacts on individuals and society. In this project, BLUKO, we investigate how cocaine affects the circulating immune system and the blood-brain barrier, and how these changes may contribute to consequences of substance use such as cognitive impairments.

Learn more about BLUKO

Mechanism-based neuroimmune interventions to

treat psychiatric disorders

How can we harness mind–body interactions to prevent and treat psychiatric disorders? Our aim is to test and translate preclinical and observational findings into clinical practice. We are currently conducting several projects, including a randomized, double-blind clinical trial investigating whether repeated transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) improves affective symptoms in individuals with Long COVID and modulates immune function (NCT06716996), as well as a multicenter trial investigating the effects of metformin on the immune system, blood–brain barrier, and stress resilience in vulnerable young adults (NCT06965868).