Biochemistry & Analytical Biochemistry

Abstract

Oxidative Stress in Bipolar Disorder

Victor Tang and Jun-Feng Wang

Research on the complex and multifaceted nature of Bipolar Disorder (BD) pathophysiology has recently expanded to include oxidative stress. Several lines of evidence have reported higher reactive oxygen species production that results in increased oxidative damage in proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. These findings have been observed in brains and peripheral samples of BD patients, as well as being reproduced in a number of animal model studies. Also discussed in this review is research highlighting antioxidant properties of existing mood stabilizing drugs, with consideration paid to novel therapeutic treatments for BD through the alleviation of oxidative stress. The maladaptive oxidative modifications of cellular macromolecules may be associated with impaired neuroplasticity and the development of functional abnormalities in the brain.