Lab. for Molecular Dynamics of Mental Disorders
RIKEN Brain Science Institute

Mission of our team

Mission of our team
 The goal of this team is to clarify the molecular basis of bipolar disorder, one of two major mental disorders. It has been suggested that sensitivity of intracellular signal transduction systems to neurotransmitters such as serotonin is altered in bipolar disorder. Our previous studies suggested possible involvement of altered mitochondrial calcium regulation in the pathophysiology of this disorder. However, molecular cascade of mitochondrial calcium regulation is not well known yet. In this study, molecular basis of alteration of intracellular signal transduction systems will be examined using cultured cells and autopsied brains. In addition, new genes related to pathophysiology of bipolar disorder will be identified using DNA microarrays in cultured cells and autopsied brains and their molecular cascades will be elucidated. Moreover, a method for metabolic diagnosis will be developed using in vivo near infrared spectroscopy. Altogether, etiology of bipolar disorder will be elucidated and new diagnostic examination and treatment will be developed.

NEW TOPICS

2012.4.1 HP was renewed.

Research themes

Mitochondrial dysfunction We are studying the possible roles of mitochondrial dysfunction in neurobiological basis of bipolar disorder. Here for details.
Epigenetics DNA methylation plays a role in long term gene expression regulation, affected by environmental factors. We study the possible roles of DNA methylation and other DNA modifications in the pathophysiology of mental disorders. Here for details.