Bipolar Research
Bipolar Disorder is known to run in families, but most genes involved have not yet been identified. A person’s response to the illness, to various life circumstances and treatment can vary. Through our studies, we strive to make a difference for individuals whose lives have been touched by Bipolar Disorder.
Genes and Subtypes of Bipolar Disorder
To look for variations in the genetic material from people who are diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. This will be done through the patient’s blood or cheek cells. The genes may be risk factors, protective factors, or involved in responsiveness to treatment for bipolar disorder. This disorder is known to run in families, but most genes involved have not yet been found. More information
Longitudinal Study of Bipolar Disorder
To identify potential illness patterns in Bipolar Disorder. This will be done through the analysis of genetic information and the continued observation of people with Bipolar Disorder for at least five years. More information
Adolescents at Hight Risk for Familial Bipolar Disorder
To identify risk factors in the development of Bipolar Disorder. If we are able to recognize biological, behavioral, social, or psychological features that predict the development of Bipolar Disorder, we may be able to decrease the impact the illness has on the individual and their family. More information
Prechter Bipolar Genetics Repository
To one day provide significant resources to the Bipolar Disorder research community. Information will be stored at the University of Michigan, along with independently approved collaborating sites that include the Universities of: Johns Hopkins, Stanford, and Cornell.
Together, these investigators are working with their research teams on specific studies to collect phenotypic information, or observable traits, on 1000 Bipolar individuals and also on 1000 Control participants. They are also collecting biological samples by examining the blood and extracting the genetic material, specifically the DNA from the participants.
It is the goal that the Repository will house these data and upon request, will distribute these valuable resources to investigators within the Bipolar Research Community.