Pathophysiology of Bipolar Disorder

Pathophysiology of Bipolar Disorder
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Purpose of study
The purpose of this research is to understand the pathophysiology of bipolar disorder better to help inform the development of more effective treatments.
Scope of the problem
Bipolar disorder constitutes a grave mental illness, afflicting roughly 2.8% of the adult populace in the United States, as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (2017) reported. This disorder is typified by stark mood swings, ranging from manic episodes to depressive episodes, which can markedly impede an individual's capacity to navigate everyday life (Mayo Clinic, 2021). Furthermore, individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder are susceptible to a heightened risk of suicide, substance abuse, and additional health complications.
Review of the literature
Several research studies have attempted to elucidate the pathophysiology of bipolar disorder. For example, Madireddy and Madireddy's (2022) wide-ranging review, for instance, surveys potential mechanisms and therapeutic interventions to address them. The authors emphasize the potential efficacy of nutraceuticals, which may target discrete neurobiological pathways. Additionally, they discuss more established treatments, including lithium therapy, antipsychotic medications, and cognitive–behavioral therapy.
Ceylan et al. (2018) investigate oxidatively-induced DNA damage and base excision repair in euthymic patients with bipolar disorder. By focusing on an older population, the authors extended prior research that predominantly addressed younger patients. The study's findings lend credence to the hypothesis that oxidatively-induced DNA damage occurs and base excision repair capacity may be reduced in bipolar patients compared to healthy people.
Finally, in a comprehensive 2019 study, Steardo et al. elucidate sleep’s significant role in bipolar disorder. The authors synthesize extant research, emphasizing the prevalence of sleep disturbances among patients and the deleterious effect these disturbances can have on the course of the illness. Steardo et al. illuminate how disruptions can exacerbate mood episodes by examining the role of circadian rhythms. Further, they identify and analyze several sleep-related biomarkers, such as changes in REM sleep, sleep latency, and sleep efficiency. Their review ultimately underscores the need for interventions that address sleep disturbances to improve patient outcomes.
Recommendations from the literature
The literature review suggests several potential avenues for advancing research and treatment development for bipolar disorder. Further investigation into the utility of nutraceuticals for ...