Head: Prof. Dr. Anne Eckert

Researchers at the Neurobiological Laboratory for Brain Aging and Mental Health are captivated by the factors affecting neuronal function in stressed, aging, and Alzheimer's-affected brains.

Our goal is to uncover the underlying factors of these disease and aging processes and to pursue translational approaches that may be beneficial for prevention, diagnosis, and/or treatment.

Current research focuses of Prof. Eckert:

• Translational Approaches: Biomarker research in psychiatric disorders (especially stress-associated and affective disorders); specific biomarkers include Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), oxytocin, cortisol (in serum, saliva, hair), DHEA, immunological parameters (e.g., IL-6, TNFα), telomere length, and telomerase activity.
• Bioenergetics – Role of Mitochondria in Neurodegeneration and Cognition: Alzheimer's disease, aging, stress, and stress-related psychiatric disorders.
• Neuropharmacology – Mechanism of Action of Medications

Further information about the project can be found here.

Publications: Link