Goals for NIMH Research in Bipolar Disorder

Steven E. Hyman, M.D.
Bibliography

Abstract
There is a substantial gap between public health needs related to bipolar disorder and the actual number and quality of research grant applications received in this area by NIMH; NIMH staff and the National Advisory Mental Health Council have long expressed concern about this. Bipolar disorder is therefore a major topic in an ongoing NIMH strategic planning effort in mood disorders which includes a review of its extramural research portfolio. It is also a major area targeted for development in the revitalization of the NIMH intramural research program. The institute sees clear opportunities for research in the genetics of bipolar disorder based on the rapid development of genomic and genetic tools and in clinical trials aimed at establishing the best use of available therapies. New developments are needed in understanding the neural substrates of mood regulation, in understanding the natural history of childhood onset bipolar disorder, in the development of biomarkers for different stages of bipolar disorder, in the development of animal models, in the development of truly novel pharmacologic treatments for both children and adults, and in the development and testing of new approaches to psychosocial interventions, including interventions to enhance treatment adherence.