Genetic researchers have pinpointed the first gene involved in
bipolar disorder. The discovery of this gene seems to explain at least 10
percent of bipolar disorder cases.
Researchers hope that the discovery will lead to better treatment
for those with bipolar disorder, which is also known as manic depression.
As of now, more than half of those who suffer from the disease do not
benefit from available medications.
John Kelsoe, M.D., and Thomas Barret, Ph.D., both psychiatrists at
the University of California at San Diego, discovered that a mutation of
the gene G protein receptorkinase 3 (GRK3) occurs three times more often
in those with bipolar disorder. The results come screening the DNA
samples from 400 families with the disorder.
The mutation causes the brain cells to be oversensitive to
neurotransmitters such as dopamine. The result is extreme mood
fluctuations that cycle between mania and depression.
To verify their research, Kelose and colleagues gave laboratory
rats the drug amphetamine to mimic bipolar disorder. The rats with a
mutated GRK3 gene had a stronger emotional response than those without
the gene.
The researchers note that the GRK3 gene is not the only cause of
manic depression. They suspect that a number of other genes may cause the
disorder to develop. The study was published in the current issue of
Molecular Psychiatry.
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three times,
university of california at san diego
