Mechanism of action of neuroprotective substances

As part of a multicenter project supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation www.omega3.uzh.ch (led by PD. Dr. Gregor Berger (PI) and Prof. Susanne Walitza and Prof. Klaus Schmeck (CO-PIs, coordinator Dr. Isa Haeberling), the antidepressant effect of omega-3 fatty acids was investigated in 257 randomized children and adolescents with major depressive disorder.

Our main investigations focus on the effect and mechanism of action of neuroprotective substances, in particular omega-3 fatty acids. Over 30 master's and doctoral theses have investigated the influence of early childhood trauma (K. Nalani), bullying, lifestyle factors such as nutrition (E. Osuma) and sleep (C. Cajochen, R. Huber, M. Strumberger) on emotional development in childhood and adolescence. Further studies included self-perception and perception of others (N. Baumgartner) as well as the cognitive and emotional consequences (S. Emery).

We are also investigating the relevance of mitochondria for adolescent depression and omega-3 metabolism in collaboration with Prof. Anne Eckert and the University Psychiatric Clinics of the University of Basel. Finally, we are investigating the influence of folic acid metabolism and autoantibodies in collaboration with PD Michele Visentin.