by Sherryl Craig

Created on: December 07, 2011   Last Updated: December 08, 2011

Scientist have confirmed that there is an apparent genetic link with Bi-Polar Disorder.  Knowing the exact make-up or component is still in the development stages. 

Dr. Demetri Papolos has lead a team of researchers in an investigation to the possibilities of a connection between the disorder and VCFS which is Velo-cardio-facial syndrome.  An absence of the chromosome 22 which can cause VCFS. With this syndrome patients may show physical attributes of long face, large nose, small ears with a slight fold at the top, and possible narrow squinty type eyes. Also accompanying this syndrome would be lack of expression in the mouth.

Bipolar disorder is caused by the relation of how the chemicals in the brain and the nervous system function with relation to behavior. When the chemicals within the brain are off or unregulated this can cause the person to experience extreme highs in mood swings and then extreme lows.

Neurotransmitters are similar to a computer system or communication system in the brain and when the system has a malfunction then you get a disconnection in behavioral and emotional abilities.

Serotonin, Norepinephrine, and Dopamine are the three main chemicals that help to regulate our thought patterns.  It is thought that genetics may play the role of 80% influence in whether a person has the disease. The other 20% is thought to be environmental.


According the National Mental Health organization it is thought that 3 out of 4 individuals with Bi-Polar Disorder could have one or more relatives with the disorder.

The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry (2002) has shown that if a patient has a parent who had the disorder and they had a positive outcome with Lithium it is possible that this patient may have a good chance of the same.

Psychiatrist and author of "Bipolar Disorder for Dummies” Candida Fink has stated that patients who show multiple problems in more than one area of the brain are the most likely of those who contribute to this disorder.

A child who has one parent with Bi-Polar Disorder has about a 12% chance of inheriting it and if both parents are affected the percent could go higher up to 25%.

Pamela Sklar, M.D., Ph.D., has lead a research team in suggesting that this disorder is also influenced by a balance of calcium and sodium within the brain cells. This in turn could cause  the channels to malfunction.

Whether researchers will ever find the true cause of this disorder is still to be seen but there is one thing we know for sure. It is a devastating disease which can cause great loss not only of family but of careers, self esteem, healthy living, and emotional and physical connections with others in general. It does not play favorites and it affects individuals of all ages.

Be proactive with your mental and physical health and have regular check ups with your family doctor. 

http://psychcentral.com/news/2008/08/18/genetic-link -for-bipolar/2771.html

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