Early detection of psychotic disorders has become an essential focus for research, leading to the emergence of a preventive approach. There is an important need for basic neurobiological research in this domain. We have therefore developed a translational research program based on three axes :
We test the hypothesis that redox imbalance and oxidative stress represent one core pathophysiological mechanism, resulting from the convergence of various causal genetic and environmental risk factors during neurodevelopment and leading to structural and functional connectivity impairments.
We are following main
(a) To identify and validate stage specific biomarker profiles in order to allow early detection and monitoring of the efficacy of new drugs, both in animal models and humans;
(b) To identify potential new treatments and preventive targets based on new critical pathophysiological molecular signaling pathways.
In order to do so, biological correlates have been assessed with non-invasive technologies including :
This research is conducted in collaboration between the Section Minkowski, TIPP program (Service of General Psychiatry, Prof. Philippe Conus and Dr Alessandra Solida) and the Unit for Research in Schizophrenia (Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, Prof. Kim Do).
Our research program is financed by :
To learn more about early detection and treatment of first psychotic episodes - schizophrenia and bipolar disorders : Presentation by Prof. Philippe Conus during the 2013-2014 conference cycle of the FondaMental Foundation (9.04.2014) :
At the Cery site, a team of researchers and clinicians from the CHUV's Department of Psychiatry are joining forces to better understand the causes and mechanisms of schizophrenia in order to better treat and ultimately prevent the disease.
The report prepared for the 2014 meeting of the American Psychiatric Association (APA) presents this research, called translational and conducted in collaboration with other departments of the CHUV, UNIL and EPFL, which places the patient at the heart of the reflection and process.