|
Group leader: Thierry Steimer Group name: Clinical Psychopharmacology Affiliation: Psychiatry |
|
Research activities:
Link to the european project "Stress and Mental Health" Selected Publications:
Contact: |
|
Université de Genève
Neuroscience center
Anxiety and mood disorders are major public health issues. These pathologies are often associated with stress. Our studies on the neurobiology of stress are based on animal models, in particular on two lines of genetically-selected rats showing important behavioural and physiological differences as regards their adaptation to stress. These differences constitute putative vulnerability or resistance factors for mood and anxiety disorders. Our aim is to find out about possible correlations between behavioural and physiological stress responses, with a focus on the neuroendocrine system. By studying hormone secretion, receptors and neurotransmitter systems associated with the stress response, we hope to gain a better understanding of the biological correlates of mood and anxiety disorders. We are also interested in environmental influences (in particular during the perinatal period) on the development of adaptive capacities, and in the role of individual differences (temperament or personnality) as predisposing factors for anxiety and depression.