Is impulsivity in part a lithium deficiency state?

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychiatry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Lithium is a first-line treatment for bipolar disorder, known for neuroprotective effects like increased grey matter density and antiapoptotic gene expression.
• Impulsivity is a core feature of bipolar disorder, worsening prognosis and linked to substance abuse and suicidal behavior.
• Lithium's mechanism involves inhibiting glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (GSK3β), with genetic variations in GSK3β associated with increased impulsivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore lithium's multifaceted role in neuroprotection and its potential to mitigate impulsivity and aggression.
• To investigate the link between lithium levels, GSK3β inhibition, and impulsivity in bipolar disorder.
• To assess the implications of trace lithium intake on societal violence and criminality.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on lithium's biochemical and structural effects in the brain.
• Analysis of studies linking GSK3β gene variability to impulsivity in bipolar patients.
• Examination of epidemiological data on trace lithium levels in drinking water and rates of suicide and violence.

Main Results:

• Lithium treatment is associated with neuroprotection, including increased grey matter density and hippocampal volume.
• Lithium's inhibition of GSK3β may underlie its effects on impulsivity, with genetic factors playing a role.
• Trace amounts of lithium in drinking water correlate inversely with suicidal mortality, aggression, and violence.

Conclusions:

• Lithium demonstrates significant neuroprotective and mood-stabilizing properties, potentially reducing impulsivity and aggression.
• Even naturally occurring lithium levels may influence behaviors like impulsivity, suicidality, and aggression.
• Further research into the benefits and risks of optimizing lithium intake, potentially through water supply, is warranted.