This project investigates how treatment expectations modulate the efficacy of an active anti-inflammatory medication on immune-mediated sickness symptoms. The experimental model of inflammation used will enable us to characterise expectation effects on immune-mediated sickness symptoms, inflammatory parameters and the efficacy of anti-inflammatory treatment. Resting-state fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging) and DTI (diffusion tensor imaging) data will provide a first insight into the importance of the prefrontal cortex and insula for these effects.

Recommended reading:

Benson S, Hagen S, Hoffmann O, Pasler A, Bingel U, Schedlowski M, Peters J, Elsenbruch S, Frey UH (2019) Can a brief psychological expectancy intervention improve postoperative pain? A randomized, controlled trial in breast cancer patients. Pain 160:1562-1571. PubMed

Benson S, Brinkhoff A, Lueg L, Roderigo T, Kribben A, Wilde B. Witzke O, Engler H, Schedlowski M, Elsenbruch S (2017) Effects of acute systemic inflammation on the interplay between sad mood and affective cognition. Transl Psychiatry 7:1281. PubMed

Benson S, Engler H, Wegner A, Rebernik L, Spreitzer I, Schedlowski M, Elsenbruch S (2017) What makes you feel sick after inflammation? Predictors of acute and persisting physical sickness symptoms induced by experimental endotoxemia. Clin Pharmacol Ther 102:141-151. PubMed