SASLAB · Projects and studies
Projects and studies
Clinical questions, collaborative research and information for people interested in taking part.
ORAKEL
Observational study · Funding 2024 to 31 December 2027
In recurrent unipolar depression, we investigate whether audio and video features capture early changes in clinical trajectories. Six visits over 48 weeks combine clinical assessments with standardised recordings. Regular treatment remains unchanged.
The study is conducted with the Neuro-Information Technology group at Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg. Funding is provided through Saxony-Anhalt WISSENSCHAFT – Research and Innovation, using ERDF and state funds.
Study procedures and participation enquiries · Institutional funding record in German
DZPG and neuroimmune mechanisms
Current funding period · 1 January 2025 to 31 August 2030
Within the German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), partner site Halle-Jena-Magdeburg, we investigate neuroimmune mechanisms in schizophrenia and depressive disorders. The Magdeburg contribution to subproject JE4 links clinical cohorts with immune-cell analyses, candidate biomarkers and imaging.
Work addresses neutrophil and monocyte function, potential peripheral sources of inflammation, biological barriers, and NfL and IGFBP2. Collaborative analyses aim to integrate these measurements with clinical trajectories and advanced imaging. The goal is to develop testable models of biological variation and potential starting points for future clinical studies.
JE4 identifies the joint subproject on immune mechanisms in mental health. Several research groups contribute; Johann Steiner leads the Magdeburg contribution described here.
Official DZPG partner-site website · Current institutional project record
Previous funding period 2023–2025DZPG-CIRC – Immune mechanisms in mental health
The previous funding period ran from 1 May 2023 to 30 April 2025. Magdeburg WP3 focused on clinical recruitment, immune phenotyping and barrier-related investigations. The scientific collaboration continues in the current funding period.
Psychosis early detection and FeTZ
FeTZ connects specialised care with research into early detection and treatment of psychosis-related changes. People seeking assessment of possible psychosis risk can contact FeTZ directly.
FeTZ team
- Prof. Dr. med. Johann Steiner
- Medical lead
- Dr. Anne Strehlow
- Psychological lead
- S. Weigand
- Psychologist
- M. Wiegel
- Physician
- G. Meyer-Lotz
- Study nurse
FeTZ information and appointments · fetz@med.ovgu.de · +49 391 67-25448
CARE
Study-centre participation completed · Project period 2022–2025
CARE investigated computer-assisted risk evaluation and risk-adapted treatment for people at increased psychosis risk. Magdeburg participated as a study centre. The G-BA currently lists the overall project as having its final report in preparation. Clinical services at FeTZ continue independently.
Further ongoing research
Current work includes NfL/IGFBP2 analyses, post-mortem microglial studies, serum and CSF brevican, and comparative meta-analyses of peripheral immune-cell findings. Our research areas explain these questions. Published work is listed under publications.