A collaborative genomic study of bipolar disorder

This study is designed to learn more about bipolar I disorder, also known as manic depressive disorder. The project’s goal is to identify genes that predispose individuals to develop bipolar disorder. We are seeking individuals who have bipolar I disorder to participate in:

• An interview about their experiences with the illness and any family history information that may be pertinent (four to five hours)
• A blood draw of approximately 45cc

Most participants come to the medical center; however, arrangements can be made to do the interview over the phone and mail out a blood kit. The blood, which is identified only with a coded number, is used to create a cell line and stored in a repository in New Jersey. DNA taken from that cell line will be used for scientific research now and in the future. Confidentiality is assured and closely protected by labeling the data and blood with only a coded number. Information that links that coded number to the individual is kept in a secure and locked cabinet at Rush until it is destroyed.

• You meet the study’s criteria for bipolar I disorder, determined in a brief screening done by the study coordinator in the initial phone call.
• You are at least 16 years old.
• You have some knowledge of your biological family's medical history regarding mental illnesses.
• You are psychiatrically stable enough to participate in a four- to five-hour interview.

This is a partial list of eligibility requirements. To learn more, contact the phone number provided. Study participants may be in or out of treatment, on or off medication.