Project Summary

Paul Mackin, M.D., Ph.D., MRCPsych (Young Investigator 2005) of the University of Newcastle upon Tyne, plans to study how the drug RU486, which blocks the action of the stress hormone cortisol, affects levels of the brain growth factor BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and may improve mood or memory in people with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. BDNF is a protein produced by the brain that is important for promoting nerve growth and development. It is also affects aspects of memory. BDNF levels are decreased in people with depression, but they appear to be less affected by schizophrenia. Raised cortisol, however, may affect levels of BDNF which may, in turn, have an adverse effect on mood and memory. In this study BDNF levels will be measured in patients with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, before and after treatment with RU486. BDNF levels also will be measured in healthy individuals for comparison. This study will examine whether improvements in mood and memory following treatment with RU486 are related to changes in BDNF levels.

Program Area: MULTIPLE FOCUS AREAS\Bipolar Disorder/Schizophrenia

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