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GABA-activated Single-channel and Tonic Currents in Rat Brain Slices
Published on: July 17, 2011
Brain GABA levels in patients with bipolar disorder
Rebecca E Kaufman1, Michael J Ostacher, Elizabeth H Marks
1Massachusetts General Hospital Department of Psychiatry, Boston, MA 02114, United States.
Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology & Biological Psychiatry
|January 28, 2009
Summary
This study found no significant differences in brain GABA levels between bipolar disorder patients and healthy controls. Further research is needed to understand GABAergic and glutamatergic roles in bipolar disorder.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is implicated in mood disorders.
- Previous research suggests a role for GABA in bipolar disorder pathophysiology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To directly examine brain GABA levels in bipolar disorder patients.
- To compare GABA, glutamate, and glutamine levels between bipolar patients and healthy controls.
Main Methods:
- Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) was employed.
- Whole brain and regional neurotransmitter levels were assessed.
- 13 bipolar disorder patients and 11 healthy controls participated.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in GABA, glutamate, or glutamine were observed between groups.
- This suggests GABA levels may not be a primary biomarker in this clinical sample.
Conclusions:
- Further investigation is required to understand GABAergic and glutamatergic mechanisms in bipolar disorder.
- The influence of pharmacotherapy, anxiety, and clinical state on these neurotransmitters needs further characterization.
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