Research Programs

Tragically, in the 21st century, bipolar disorder is still misdiagnosed and, in turn, not adequately treated. A variety of psychopharmacological treatments do exist which assist bipolar sufferers in managing their illness. However, side effects of these drugs are often perceived as intolerable and lead patients to discontinue their medications. At this time, there are no cures for bipolar disorder.

The Heinz C. Prechter Bipolar Research Fund at The University of Michigan Depression Center follows a bold vision. We aim to advance breakthrough medical research to help develop cures for bipolar disorder. The Fund believes the following areas will render the most promising results of wellness in the future:

Psychiatric genetics: Bipolar disorder is a hereditary disease that runs in families. Scientists believe that various genes are at the root cause of this illness. We are funding research to identify the genes responsible, the way they interact with each other, and how to "switch off" the genes via pharmacological intervention to prevent the onset of bipolar illness.

Neuroscience: Although during the 1990s-dubbed the "Decade of the Brain"-Congress funded an unprecedented amount of brain research, much more needs to be done to fully comprehend the inner workings of our most prized organ.

Neuroimaging: Many Americans still believe that mental illnesses are "not real" or just "a state of mind." Brain imaging proves that there are physical changes taking place in the brain which reflect the presence of depression and bipolar disorder. Once decision makers in business and politics realize that mental illness is a physical illness, they will be more accepting of related afflictions. The stigma of manic depression will decrease. The illness will be treated on par with other (physical) illnesses leading legislators and insurance companies to stop the discriminatory practice of providing different levels of health care coverage for various illnesses.

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