What effect does an infection have on our brain?

Through the DFG-funded Research Training Group NeurInfect (GRK 3136), we intend to place particular emphasis at LNdW 2026 on the interplay between physical symptoms – such as dynamic changes in the immune system during infectious diseases – and their effects on neuropsychiatric factors, as well as structural and functional changes in the brain.

The project is supported by a collaboration between Jena University Hospital, the Hans Knöll Institute in Jena, Friedrich Schiller University Jena and Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin. Through the interplay of infectious diseases, immunology, neurology and psychiatry, the aim is to elucidate the causal link between respiratory tract infections and neuropsychiatric sequelae (NPI). The central hypothesis is that a respiratory tract infection followed by systemic inflammation triggers an acute immune-neural response that impairs brain function and leads to delirium and acute behavioural changes (illness behaviour). This acute crisis can give rise to long-term neuropsychiatric sequelae due to persistent disruptions in neural circuits.

Another key focus is on neuropsychology and the question of how the brain influences our thinking, feelings and behaviour. Using clear, partly child-friendly examples, we aim to demonstrate how closely certain brain regions are linked to cognitive functions such as memory and attention, and what cognitive changes may occur following an infection. In addition, the workings of the immune system are explained in a playful way. A particular highlight is the exclusive insight into real MRI scans, during which visitors have the opportunity to take a closer look at the different areas of the brain.

Further information: Neurinfect Research Training Group