More and more research is pointing to the role the immune system plays in causing neurological disorders. Finding out how it fits with psychosis will be the focus of the annual Immune Function in Psychosis (iPsychosis ) meeting at NUI Galway today and tomorrow June 29 and June 30.
The aim of this year’s conference is to link up researchers in the field, and establish a European network in the area. Topics covered will range from the genetics of immune function in psychosis to pharmacological approaches to treating inflammation in psychosis.
Speaking in advance of the event Professor Gary Donohoe from the School of Psychology at NUI Galway, said: “The iPsychosis meeting will bring together international leaders in the field of psychosis research to discuss the role of immune function in the development of schizophrenia and related disorders. Generously funded by Science Foundation Ireland, this two day meeting will be an opportunity to review current knowledge, identify gaps and plan future research in this important area.”
World leaders in the field who will speak at the conference include:
Professor Oliver Howes, King’s College London
Dr Tina Notter, University of Zurich
Professor Norbert Muller-Ludwig, Maximilians Univeristy Munich
Professor Hemmo Drexhage, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam
Dr Golam Khander, University of Cambridge
Professor Brian Leonard, NUI Galway
Dr Golum Khandaker, Clinical Lecturer in Cambridge Neuroscience at University of Cambridge, said: “Research on the immunological basis of schizophrenia is at the cutting edge of research into the causes of this highly disabling disorder. A better understanding of the immunological basis of schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders may lead to new treatments.”
The conference will take place today Thursday 29 June from 8:30am-5pm and tomorrow Friday 30 June, from 9am-5pm in room G065 of the Arts Millennium Building at NUI Galway.
For more conference details, visit: http://www.conference.ie/Conferences/index.asp?Conference=499
