Until recently, little was known about the role of genetics in mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder. However, researchers from NeuRA and around the world have collaborated to identify 36 genes and nearly 300 genetic variants associated with the condition, providing new insights into its underlying biology.
The Psychiatric Genomics Consortium genome-wide association study (GWAS) involved more than 2.9 million participants and identifying 298 genetic variants that increase the risk for bipolar disorder.
Australian researcher and NeuRA Principal Research Scientist, Associate Professor Jan Fullerton, said the study aimed to learn more about the underlying biology of bipolar disorder.
“Bipolar disorder is a complex psychiatric disorder affecting 40 to 50 million people worldwide, yet little is known about the biology of the condition,” Assoc Prof Fullerton said.
“Identifying new regions and cross-referencing these has led to the identification of 36 genes which are suspected to be relevant to bipolar.”
The study suggests a possible role for neurons in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus of the brain, as well as specific cells in the large intestine and pancreas, although more research is necessary to understand the biology.
This is the largest study on the genetics of bipolar disorder to date and includes over 800 researchers, 150 institutions and 40 countries.
“This research will influence new research projects, including looking at the 36 key genes and exploring how these may help with the development of new treatments,” Assoc Prof Fullerton said.
Read the full paper here: https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-025 – 00101‑7
