Mood and anxiety disorders, including major depression (MD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), are complex psychiatric illnesses driven by the interaction of (epi-)genetic and environmental factors, including exposure to chronic stress and/or trauma. Although these illnesses represent a significant global disease and social burden, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood.

The Hartmann Lab is dedicated to exploring the molecular, cellular, and neurocircuit-specific changes that shape an individual’s trajectory towards susceptibility or resilience to stress-related mental disorders. Our research employs a combination of mouse models, machine learning based behavioral analysis, single-cell transcriptomics, and viral vectors to gain deeper insights into the specific cell types and polygenic architecture involved in stress-related psychiatric disorders including MD and PTSD.

Another crucial aspect of our research centers around the crosstalk between neuronal stress circuits and the immune system with a specific focus on the impact of chronic stress on neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. Our multidisciplinary approach encompasses primary cell cultures, genetic and transgenic techniques in mice, and analysis of human postmortem brain tissue. By integrating clinical and preclinical data, our goal is to unravel the complex interplay between stress and immune function in psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders.

Through our comprehensive investigations, we strive to advance knowledge and identify potential therapeutic interventions for stress-related psychiatric disorders and neurodegenerative diseases.