Neurochemical underpinnings in bipolar disorder and epilepsy.
In this article, we discuss and highlight some of the potential neurochemical underpinnings of bipolar disorder (BD) and epilepsy. Some similarities are found in both disorders, such as the episodic course of the illnesses, the possible mechanism of kindling, and the efficacy of some antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in treatment, all pointing to a common underlying pathophysiology. Common mechanisms at the level of ion channels might include the antikindling and the calcium-antagonistic and potassium outward current-modulating properties of AEDs. However, future research on intracellular mechanisms might become decisive for a better understanding of the similarities between the disorders.
Amann
Benedikt
B
Department of Psychiatry, University LMU Munich, Munich, Germany. benedikt.amann@med.uni-muenchen.de
Grunze
Heinz
H
D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001714:Bipolar Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000503:physiopathology; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D007473:Ion Channels / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology; D007696:Kindling, Neurologic / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology; D008094:Lithium / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D018696:Neuroprotective Agents / Q000378:metabolism / Q000494:pharmacology; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology; D015290:Second Messenger Systems / Q000502:physiology; D014158:Transcription, Genetic / Q000502:physiology
D000927:Anticonvulsants; D007473:Ion Channels; D018696:Neuroprotective Agents; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents; D008094:Lithium