Post by Twice-Shy on Jun 17, 2003 3:46:18 GMT -5
Came across this article in yesterday BMJ.com on the search to understand manic depression. Here's the full thing:
Manic depression - scientists close in on cause of troubled genius
Source: The Times
Date: 16/06/2003
Researchers from the University of California in San Diego have shown that a single faulty gene is responsible for up to 10 per cent of cases of manic depression, also known as bipolar disorder. The gene mutation makes carriers hypersensitive to signalling chemicals in the brain that control mood, triggering the extreme highs and lows that afflict manic depressive patients. The condition can often be treated with antipsychotic drugs, but some sufferers experience no benefits from drug treatment. Scientists believe that the latest discovery could lead to the design of more precise and effective treatments. The article in The Times includes a case study of a patient with bipolar disorder.
Manic depression - scientists close in on cause of troubled genius
Source: The Times
Date: 16/06/2003
Researchers from the University of California in San Diego have shown that a single faulty gene is responsible for up to 10 per cent of cases of manic depression, also known as bipolar disorder. The gene mutation makes carriers hypersensitive to signalling chemicals in the brain that control mood, triggering the extreme highs and lows that afflict manic depressive patients. The condition can often be treated with antipsychotic drugs, but some sufferers experience no benefits from drug treatment. Scientists believe that the latest discovery could lead to the design of more precise and effective treatments. The article in The Times includes a case study of a patient with bipolar disorder.