PD Dr. Flurin Cathomas, Zurich
Department of Adult Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Zurich, University of Zurich

Immunopsychiatry: Between Hype and Hope

The brain and peripheral organ systems are linked by complex, bidirectional communication, in which the immune system plays an important role. A substantial body of preclinical and clinical research implicates immune processes in stress-related psychiatric disorders, including depression. Clinical studies have reported alterations in immune-related protein concentrations and immune cell profiles in blood and cerebrospinal fluid. Despite initial enthusiasm and a wealth of findings, the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood, and translation into routine clinical practice has been limited. In this talk, I will review recent advances in immunopsychiatry, examine potential reasons for the gap between biological findings and clinical application, and discuss future research approaches. The aim is to critically assess current limitations and explore how a more precise understanding of immune-brain interactions could potentially inform clinical care.

This Lecture is part of the DGBP Online Lecture Series 2026/2027

Online Participation via Zoom:

https://uni-jena-de.zoom-x.de/j/69790467762

MeetingCode: 2026