Bipolar Disorders: Basic Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications PDF

Preface

Since the first edition of our book was published, increasing progress has been seen in the understanding of the basic mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of bipolar mood disorders. When our first edition was prepared, there was comparatively little research being conducted on the mechanisms involved in this disorder. Recent years have seen an increasing interest in this field and an increasing amount of activity. Important research initiatives have begun to elucidate the pathophysiology of this disorder. These research initiatives are beginning to lead to breakthroughs in the understanding of the causation of bipolar mood disorders and the development of novel treatments. Some of these new advances have recently translated into newer treatments available for these disorders.

Of particular importance is the development of newer tools from neuropsychopharmacology, which have provided new ways to study various brain systems, including post-receptor and transcriptional mechanisms. Developments in neuroimaging have made possible the in vivo study of brain anatomy, neurotransmission, and metabolic processes. Important tools from genetics are becoming available and are being applied to further the understanding of mechanisms involved in bipolar disorders. Cognitive neuropsychology has also provided improved tools for the more refined study of brain functions in these disorders. These novel research avenues have provided new dimensions in exploring the biological mechanisms involved. New therapeutic developments have already become available in the past few years. These advances are expected to gradually continue to translate into new approaches for the treatment of bipolar disorder over the next few to several years.

The updated findings from this research have not been comprehensively summarized in a book focused specifically on the biological underpinnings of bipolar mood disorders. There are some excellent books available on the subject of bipolar disorders, but their focus is primarily on diagnostic issues, course of illness, and treatment. To fill this gap, we are proud to present the second edition of our book, Bipolar Disorders: Basic Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications. This volume presents outstanding manuscripts by the leaders in the particular areas of biological research pertinent to bipolar disorders. Among other very important topics, we have included chapters on genetics, neuroimaging, neuropsychology, investigations of post-receptor and transcriptional abnormalities, potential interactions between biology and psychosocial factors, childhood onset and late-life bipolar disorder, and several other important topics. A chapter on the implications of these research areas for ongoing therapeutic developments in this field is also included. The potential therapeutic implications of new research, as in the first edition, are emphasized throughout the book.

We are very happy to have had the collaboration of some of the leading scientists in their respective fields of research, and believe this volume will be a valuable resource for researchers in this field and in related areas. It is presented as a complete and accessible reference to the most updated information on the biological basis and therapeutics of bipolar mood disorders. It should be useful as supplemental reading for graduate and postgraduate courses on the neurobiology of mental illness. Mental health practitioners will find it extremely useful as an updated source with the most recent research progress in this field. We hope you will share our excitement with these new developments.