Raz Yirmiya: The inflammatory underpinning of depression

Professor Raz Yirmiya stands at the forefront of research exploring how the immune system shapes mental health, leading the Laboratory for Psychoneuroimmunology at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. His seminal discoveries transformed our understanding of depression's biological roots when he became the first scientist to demonstrate experimentally that inflammation triggers depressive symptoms. By developing sophisticated animal models and conducting careful human studies, he revealed how inflammatory challenges affect mood and cognition, illuminating entirely new perspectives on depression's underlying mechanisms. His research unveiled the essential role of brain inflammation and microglia cells in stress-induced depression, particularly documenting how interleukin-1β and microglial dynamics influence both depressive symptoms and neurogenesis. This foundational work has become an extensive exploration of novel treatments, as Professor Yirmiya leads efforts to develop innovative antidepressants that target microglial function. Beyond his research breakthroughs, he has shaped the field through leadership roles, including serving as President of the Psychoneuroimmunology Research Society and associate editor of Brain, Behavior, and Immunity . In this Genomic Press Interview, Professor Yirmiya reflects on his scientific journey and shares insights illuminating the personal and professional dimensions of his quest to understand depression's biological foundations.