Author:
Karl Erik Piirimees

Research group of neuropsychiatric genomics

Mental health conditions are increasingly common in modern societies, with every other individual affected during their lifetime. However, the causal mechanisms of these conditions are not well understood. This is hindering advancements in novel prevention and treatment strategies that could improve the life quality of those affected and their family members. Our research group aims to understand the causes and consequences of mental health conditions across the lifespan and develop better, more personalised prevention and treatment strategies. To accomplish these aims, we use computational and statistical methods to analyse data from large-scale biobanks, electronic health records and questionnaire data. 

Research projects

  1. Exploring the role of genetic and environmental factors (as well as their interplay) in the onset, course, and outcomes of neuropsychiatric disorders, their symptoms, subtypes and related traits. We have currently ongoing projects focusing on mood and anxiety disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, eating disorders, Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. 
  2. Investigating the mechanisms underlying the comorbidity between psychiatric disorders and somatic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, asthma and COVID-19 severity. We aim to apply our findings to improve disease management and health outcomes of patients with these comorbidities. 

Overview of the group

Kelli Lehto

Kelli Lehto

PI, PhD, Associate Professor

CV

Kadri Kõiv

Kadri Kõiv

PhD, Research Fellow

CV

Elis Haan

Elis Haan

PhD, Research Fellow

CV

Tuuli Sedman

Tuuli Sedman

PhD, Specialist, Lecturer in Psychiatry

CV

Hanna Maria Kariis

Hanna Maria Kariis

PhD student, Junior Research Fellow

CV

Siim Kurvits

Siim Kurvits

PhD student, Junior Research Fellow

CV

Keiti Liivas

Keiti Liivas

MSc student

Kaisa Usberg

Kaisa Usberg

MSc student

Triinu Ojalo

Triinu Ojalo

Specialist

Alumni

  • Triinu Ojalo, MA
  • Marit Luik, MA
  • Elina Kahre, BA
  • Aliise-Maria Pärna, BA
Koroonaviirus

European Commission funds research to tackle long-term COVID-19 health impact

tümri konverents 2023

Annual Conference of the Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology and the Institute of Genomics

Taimebioloogia

University of Tartu to lead six Estonian centres of excellence in research