Novel risk genes for bipolar disorder

(Fujita Health University) A research collaboration in Japan, led by Dr. Nakao Iwata, professor at the Fujita Health University, conducted a genome-wide association study of bipolar disorder (BD), and identified novel risk genes. One of these genes (FADS) is related to lipid metabolism (e.g., omega3/6 polyunsaturated fatty acids); therefore, they concluded that lipid abnormality may be involved in BD pathophysiology. Elucidating an independent association between these two phenotypes provides a foundation for new therapeutic strategies.

Source: EurekAlert! - Biology - January 26, 2017 Category: Biology Source Type: news