A PROFESSOR of psychiatry and consultant neuropsychiatrist is set to explain more about how inflammation affects the brain at a talk in Helensburgh.

Jonathan Cavanagh, will explain in greater detail the implications for neuro-psychiatric diseases with the University of the Third Age (U3A) in Helensburgh on Friday, September 6 at 11am in the Helensburgh Parish Church Hall.

Working at the University of Glasgow and the Queen Elizabeth University, he leads a group focused on exploring mechanisms underlying immune-mediated behaviours and psychiatric/medical co-morbidities using the techniques of molecular neuroimmunology.

A spokesperson for the Helensburgh U3A group said: " In this talk the role of immunobiology in the pathology of depression will be explored.

"This will include reference to preclinical biological models and clinical experimental medicine studies.  

"The goal of this work is, ultimately, to provide mechanism-specific biomarkers that will lead to new and improved treatments for this enigmatic disorder."

Coffee and tea are available from 10.40am and there is a charge of £2 towards room hire.

U3A talks are open only to members, and those who wish to join can fine out more by visiting the Helensburgh group's official website at u3asites.org.uk/helensburgh.