Identifying genes linked to bipolar disorder

Bipolar Genetics: A Collaborative Study

This study is trying to find genes that may increase the risk of bipolar disorder by looking at people with the condition and their families to help improve diagnosis and treatment.

Quick facts

• Study type: Observational
• Enrollment: 6000 (estimated)
• Ages: 18 Years to 100 Years
• Sex: All
• Sponsor: National Institutes of Health Clinical Center (CC) (NIH)
• Locations: 1 site (Bethesda, Maryland)
• Trial ID: NCT00001174 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project aims to identify genetic markers and variations that contribute to the risk of developing bipolar disorder through genetic mapping and whole exome sequencing. It involves studying individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder and their relatives, correlating phenotypic information from clinical interviews and family histories with genotypic data. The primary objective is to uncover genes involved in bipolar disorder to improve diagnosis, treatment, and prevention methods. Secondary objectives include analyzing treatment responses and establishing a catalog of induced pluripotent stem cells for further genomic studies.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and over with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder or related conditions, as well as their first or second-degree relatives.

Not a fit: Patients under 18 years old or those with bipolar disorder attributable to substance abuse or neurological diseases may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic and treatment methods for bipolar disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success in identifying genetic factors associated with bipolar disorder, making this approach both relevant and promising.

Eligibility criteria

* INCLUSION CRITERIA:

In order to be eligible to participate in this study, an individual must meet all of the following criteria:

1. Stated willingness to comply with all study procedures and availability for the duration of the study.
2. Male or female, aged 18 years and over. Children are excluded for the following reasons: age at onset of BD is usually later than age 18, the diagnostic and assessment instruments we use are not validated in children.
3. In good general health as evidenced by medical history or diagnosed with or exhibiting symptoms of bipolar disorder or related conditions not attributable to substance abuse, or neurological disease; OR a 1st or 2nd degree relative of an enrolled participant. Related conditions are defined as those found more often among relatives of people with bipolar disorder or which have been shown to be genetically correlated with bipolar disorder through molecular genetic studies. These include major depression, schizophrenia, panic disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
4. Ability to safely provide a blood or saliva sample.
5. Ability of subject to understand and willingness to sign a written informed consent document.

EXCLUSION CRITERIA:

An individual who meets any of the following criteria will be excluded from participation in this study:

1. Active alcohol or substance abuse.
2. Subjects who suffer cognitive impairment and are unable to provide an accurate psychiatric history are excluded since much of the diagnostic information relies on selfreport and recall of past events.

Where this trial is running

Bethesda, Maryland

• National Institutes of Health Clinical Center — Bethesda, Maryland, United States (Recruiting)

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Francis J McMahon, M.D. — National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
• Study coordinator: Emily Besancon

Conditions Bipolar Disorder; Affective Disorder; Depression; Genetic Polymorphisms; Major Depression; Genome-Wide Scan; Natural History; Panic Disorder