Neuroscience of psychomotor function

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Research area

Psychomotor function is altered in many mental illnesses. This can manifest as subtle changes in coordination and movement control, slowing down, repetitive involuntary movements, or complex disturbances in movement patterns. Some of these movement changes are very clearly recognizable, while others require precise examination techniques. Clinically, catatonia syndrome is of particular importance. Abnormalities in psychomotor function provide valuable information, as they can indicate the onset of disease or an unfavorable course. At the same time, the effect of treatment is often first visible in the reduction of movement abnormalities. Brain areas and networks involved in movement control are significantly altered in some mental illnesses. This opens up possibilities for specific treatment.

Methods

We use clinical scales, video technology, behavioral experiments, and sensors to record changes in psychomotor activity. To investigate the brain networks involved, we use functional and structural brain imaging as well as motor-evoked potentials. In addition, we examine whether non-invasive brain stimulation methods such as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation or other non-pharmacological interventions can provide relief.

Goals

Our goal is to better understand psychomotor function and use this knowledge to make predictions. We also want to gain a better understanding of the neural basis of psychomotor function in order to develop targeted treatments. Our findings will improve psychiatric diagnostics and optimize the treatment of mental disorders.

Team

• Prof. Dr. med. Sebastian Walther 
  Tel.: +49 931 201-77000
  E-Mail: Walther_S5@ ukw.de
• Stephanie Lefebvre, PhD
  E-Mail: Lefebvre_S@ ukw.de
• Mira Semmelroch
  E-Mail: Semmelroch_M@ ukw.de
• Dr. med. Maximilian Friedrich
  E-Mail: Friedrich_M6@ ukw.de
• Camille Serquet
  E-Mail:
• Michael von Broen
  E-Mail: Broen_M@ ukw.de

Publications

The working group's publications can be found here or on pubmed.

Third-party funded projects

• The motor activity subjective energy (MASE) project: Neurobiological and digital phenotyping towards digital mental health interventions in depression. ERA-NET Neuron 

Selection of completed third-party funded projects

• Overcoming Psychomotor Slowing in Psychosis,  SNF 182469
• An examination of psychomotor disturbance in current and remitted MDD: An RDoC Study. NIMH R01MH118741