The Na,K-ATPase hypothesis for bipolar illness.
A cellular model for bipolar illness is presented. It is propounded that alterations in the activity of the membrane sodium- and potassium-activated adenosine triphosphatase pump (Na,K-ATPase) may be responsible for alterations in neuronal excitability and activity. Specifically, a reduction in Na,K-ATPase activity can lead to both mania and depression by increasing membrane excitability and decreasing neurotransmitter release, respectively. Supporting evidence is reviewed, and clinical and research implications are discussed.
el-Mallakh
R S
RS
Neuropsychiatry Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, Neuropsychiatric Research Hospital, Washington, DC, USA.
Wyatt
R J
RJ
D001714:Bipolar Disorder / Q000201:enzymology*; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D000254:Sodium-Potassium-Exchanging ATPase / Q000378:metabolism*
D000254:Sodium-Potassium-Exchanging ATPase