People suffering from manic depression go through continuous bouts of mania and depression that affects them their entire life.

Determining what causes bipolar 1 disorder has long been the focus of many studies. And many researchers feel that we may finally be getting closer to the answer to that question.

Can gene study lead researchers to discover the cause of manic depression? Some researchers seem to think so as a recent study points to two genes that seem as though they may play a central part in determining a person’s risk for developing manic depression.

If true, the importance of the discovery may lead to a whole host of new and better treatments to combat the disorder.

The 2 genes that are causing all of the symptoms of manic depression illness are the ANK3 gene and the CACNA1C gene. The ANK3 gene is located on chromosome 10 at position q21. The CACNA1C gene is important in the production of the calcium channels which can be found in many of the body’s cells and are especially critical to the functioning of the heart and brain cells.

Moreover, it’s known that the proteins created by these genes indirectly influences the activity in the brain’s nerve cells by controlling the flow of sodium and calcium in the brain.

And now that the researchers have a big clue as to the genes causing this disorder, they can begin to work on treatments that target the gene directly.

Please see Julie’s website for more articles regarding bipolar disorder test.

Disclaimer: The medical info published on our website is in no way to be construed as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a health care professional.

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March 10, 2010 at 9:41 am by FourLane
Category: Main Content