Breakthrough Discoveries for Thriving with Bipolar Disorder

In 2023, the Heinz C. Prechter Bipolar Research Program was named as one of six institutions that is part of the BD² Integrated Network with BD²: Breakthrough Discoveries for Thriving with Bipolar Disorder. Along with Brigham and Women’s Hospital-McLean Hospital, University of California Los Angeles, Johns Hopkins University, Mayo Clinic, UTHealth Houston, the Prechter Program at the University of Michigan will work in partnership with clinicians, researchers, and lived experience individuals to expand knowledge of bipolar disorder while accelerating the translation of that knowledge into clinical care. Over the next five years, the BD² Integrated Network will engage 4,000 people living with bipolar disorder as part of a longitudinal cohort study. The purpose of this study is to create a database of information that allows researchers to explore how genetics and other biomarkers are impacted by bipolar disorder and its treatment. This information will be useful in learning more about bipolar disorder and to assist in the development of individualized care.

Recruitment for this study is closed and we hope to share results soon.

This study is so important to me and my family. Many of my siblings, cousins, and their children have been impacted by bipolar disorder. The study allowed me to recount my ongoing journey. I was able to describe treatments I’ve had and the results in a way that helped me realize how far I’ve come in understanding my mind, body, and spirit relationship with my bipolar disorder. The study team was extremely supportive and sensitive to some topics I’ve not shared with others. This research will be crucial in finding commonalities between study participants. I appreciate the work being done to find treatments for myself, my children, and generations to come. — Karen Eisel, research participant in the BD² Integrated Network study