Overview

The purpose of this NIH (National Institute of Health) funded study is to examine the possible existance of brain abnormalities in first-degree relatives of people with Bipolar Disorder (manic-depression) using magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy (MRI/MRS). The MRI takes pictures of the brain and the MRS simultaneously measures a specific brain chemical called N-Acetyl-Asparate (NAA). We want to compare the size of key brain regions of persons with bipolar disorder as well as their relatives to those who do not have the condition to see if there is a relationship between these levels and the clinical symptoms of bipolar disorder.

If you meet initial eligibility criteria a screening visit is scheduled. The screening visit lasts up to 3 hours and involves a structured clinical interview that asks you questions about you and your family's medical and psychiatric history. This will be conducted by a member of our research team for the purpose of confirming a psychiatric diagnosis (or a lack thereof for healthy controls). A urine sample will also be taken to rule out pregnancy and illicit drug use. If you and/or your relative continue to qualify for the study an MRI/MRS is scheduled at UNC's Biomedical Research Imaging Center. This visit will take approximately 2 hours. The next component of the study can be completed the same day as the MRI/MRS or at the next visit. You will be given several neuropsychological tests to assess your mental functioning. These tests consist of questions and particular exercises (including computer tasks) that will test your ability to concentrate, and to learn and deal with new information. This visit can take up to 4 hours.

Eligibility

• For Bipolar Participants a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder and a healthy first-degree relative
• For Healthy Participants no previous psychiatric diagnosis and a first degree relative with Bipolar Disorder
• For Healthy Controls no previous psychiatric diagnosis for you or any first degree relatives (parents, siblings, children)
• At least 18 years of age
• Not currently pregnant
• No current major medical problems (i.e. cancer, diabetes, hypertension, heart problems)
• No illegal substances for 6 months
• No metal plates/parts in body (pacemakers, aneurysm clips, screws, etc.)
• No history of epilepsy or loss of consciousness for more than 30 minutes

Study Payment