Crick Crash Course: Psychosis

Psychosis is a mental state in which people hear, see, or believe things that are not real. It is a core feature of severe mental disorders such as schizophrenia, which affect millions worldwide. Despite its devastating impact, the biology of psychosis remains poorly understood — in part because its symptoms are subjective, making it difficult to study psychosis in scientific terms.

Katharina Schmack’s lab at the Crick studies how the brain and the immune system influence our thoughts and perceptions, and what goes wrong in psychosis. Her team uses a unique cross-species approach, combining behavioural tests and immunological assays in both humans and mice to identify the brain circuits and immune processes involved. The ultimate goal is to uncover new ways to treat psychosis by targeting its biological roots.

The talk will be followed by a Q&A, where Katharina will be happy to answer any audience questions. Please note that Katharina will be unable to comment on individual cases, and the Crick cannot provide medical advice.

About Katharina

Katharina trained as a psychiatrist and neuroscientist in Berlin, Germany, and in New York, US, before joining the Francis Crick Institute as a Group Leader in 2021. Alongside her research, she maintains a clinical role in a community mental health team in the NHS.

Please note, this lecture is being recorded to be shared at a later date. We will have cameras in some of the rows and some seats may have a restricted view. The recording will feature only the speaker, the audience will not appear on film.

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Host or Publisher The Francis Crick Institute