Project Summary

Michael J. Saganich, Ph.D. (Young Investigator 2006) of the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, will study how beta-catenin may play a role in how lithium works to treat bipolar disorder (BD). Lithium has been an effective treatment of BD for more than 50 years, but how it works remains a mystery. One approach to understanding the mechanism of BD, and identifying new targets for treatment, is to uncover how lithium works. Recent evidence shows that the protein beta-catenin may play a role. Beta-catenin acts during synaptic functioning, and thus can influence the way neurons communicate. Breakdown of communication within the brain is believed to be a feature of most neurological disorders. Cellular levels of beta-catenin are regulated by the ubiquitin-proteosome pathway, which targets it for degradation. In the proposed project, Dr. Saganich will focus on understanding ubiquitin-dependent control of beta-catenin in neurons, its consequences on synaptic function, and uncovering new avenues for the treatment of BD.

Program Area: MOOD DISORDERS\Bipolar

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