Project Summary

Nicholas Barden, Ph.D. (Distinguished Investigator 2000) of Laval University, is examining a susceptibility gene for bipolar disorder on chromosome 12.  A genome-wide scan by his group in a genetically homogeneous population in Quebec suggests linkage with a specific region on this chromosome.  Dr. Barden will attempt to identify genes in this region that are sensitive to glucocorticoids.  Since a majority of depressive or manic episodes are initially precipitated by a stress, it is expected that the gene or genes responsible for bipolar disorder will be regulated by steroid hormones.  This approach should greatly facilitate identification of the gene by avoiding a length cloning approach of multiple genes.    

Program Area: MOOD DISORDERS\Bipolar

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