I am a neuroscientist specializing in Psycho-Neuro-Immunology (PNI). The field of PNI studies interactions between the central nervous system (CNS), the endocrine system, and the immune system. Bidirectional influences between these systems affect susceptibility to diseases, cognition, mood, and behavior, as well as neurodevelopmental processes. Within the realm of PNI, my main research interests are the impacts of surgery and stress (and the bioactive substances associated with them) on cell-mediated immunity (specifically NK cells) and on resistance to tumor metastasis and tumor progression. Additional interests include: sexual dimorphisms in stress responses, immunity, and tumor development; recurrent miscarriage; and immune functions in humans with mental disorders.

Methods
my studies are conducted using animal models, human subjects, and patients, and aim at understanding underlying mechanisms in view of clinical implications.