Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder characterized by mood shifts that range from extreme mania to extreme depression. Mania may include feelings of euphoria, risky behavior, poor judgment, impulsive behaviors, increased sexual behavior, racing thoughts and a decreased need for sleep. Symptoms of a depressive cycle of bipolar disorder, according to the Mayo Clinic, include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, changes in sleep and appetite, loss of interest in daily activities, irritability, anxiety, guilt, and suicidal thoughts or behavior. Mood shifts may occur within a matter of days or last for months at a time, with no clear indication as to when a mood shift will occur.
Genetics
There is a clearly proven link showing that bipolar disorder runs in families. The National Institute of Mental Heath reports that children with a parent or sibling that has the disorder are four to six times more likely to develop bipolar disorder than children who do not have a close relative with the disease. It should be made clear that many people have a close relative with bipolar disorder and do not develop the illness; however, it does increase the risk.
Brain Function
Research examining the differences between the brain of someone with bipolar disorder compared with someone without the disorder is a relatively new field with many of the findings still considered preliminary and inconclusive. However, researchers examining visual images of the brain, known at PET scans, have found there are some differences that can be seen in portions of the brain responsible for mood and behavior. Dr. Daniel Amen, a leading expert within the field of brain imaging technology, uses PET scans to diagnose and treat mood disorders, including bipolar.
Identifying Genes
Scientists are trying to pinpoint if there is a gene or genes that play a role in the development of bipolar disorder. Using genetic mapping technology, Dr. Vishwajit Nimgaonkar, principal investigator for the Bipolar Genetics Research Project at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, has found that many genetic factors influence the development of the disorder, and multiple genes may be involved. Finding and isolating if there is a gene or genes that result in bipolar disorder would allow for early identification of the disorder and early treatment.
