Researchers have identified six predictors that may help determine the correct amount of lithium to treat a patient with bipolar disorder.
Rare variants of the AKAP11 gene raise the risk of developing bipolar disorder several-fold, making it the strongest risk factor gene for bipolar identified to date.
A new technique allowed researchers to evaluate the distribution of lithium levels in the human brain. Findings revealed those without depression had significantly more lithium in the brain's white matter than in gray matter. By contrast, those with depression or suicidal ideations had more balanced distribution of lithium in both white and gray matter.
Decreased activation of the LEF1 gene is more common in bipolar patients who do not respond to lithium.
Bipolar disorder affects about 1% of the population and typically begins during adolescence. Researchers explain the biological, psychological, and behavioral implications of bipolar disorder.
Study reports naturally occurring lithium in public drinking water may lower suicide rates. Researchers found that in geographical areas with high concentrations of lithium in drinking water, suicide rates were lower in the population.
Findings support the idea that lithium, a drug more commonly associated with the treatment of bipolar disorder, may help treat those with SHANK3 related autism.
Animal study reveals the formation of amyloid plaques drives brain tissue loss and neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease. However, lithium, a drug commonly used to treat bipolar disorder, reduces the life-shortening effects of the loss.
More commonly associated with treating bipolar disorder, microdoses of lithium may halt the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
Previous research into the effects of lithium exposure via breastmilk are poorly designed and sparse, researchers report. Until more research is done, mothers and babies should be reviewed on a case-by-case basis for lithium continuation, as discontinuing the medication could pose a significant risk for both child and parent.
A new study reveals how the physical force exerted by the solid components of brain tumors impacts surrounding tissue, resulting in apoptosis and neurological dysfunction. Researchers reports the drug lithium, commonly prescribed for bipolar disorder, can help reverse some of the damage caused by the solid stress of the tumor.
Following a 12 year long study, researchers have identified seven phenoclasses that can help doctors to diagnose and track the progression of bipolar disorder in patients.
