Participants are invited to join the University of Iowa family study of bipolar disorder/manic depressive illness.

The University of Iowa Bipolar Genetics Study is funded by the National Institute of Mental Health to study manic-depressive disorder. This study is a part of a collaborative project with ten other university affiliated research groups to learn more about genetic factors that may influence the development of manic depression. The project's goal is to identify genes that may predispose individuals to develop bipolar/manic-depressive illness. This study may ultimately lead to improved methods of diagnosis and treatment for the disorder.

Genetics studies are a relatively new and exciting part of psychiatric research. The project involves reviewing the family histories of persons with manic-depressive disorder to establish patterns of heritability (genetic transmission).

Criteria for Participation
Individuals age 16 and older who have bipolar/manic-depressive illness are invited to participate in a family study of bipolar disorder at the University of Iowa Department of Psychiatry.

For a family to be enrolled in the study, it is necessary to have one family member who has been diagnosed or has had symptoms of Bipolar Disorder.

What Else Should I Know?
All of the information obtained by the Collaborative Genomic Study of Bipolar Disorder will remain completely confidential, even among family members, and will not become part of any medical records. When research papers are published, no names or other identifying information about individual will appear.

The individual with Bipolar Disorder will be asked to complete a diagnostic interview and answer brief family history questions. This takes approximately 3-4 hours. Participants will be asked to donate a small blood sample for DNA testing. Scheduling is done to best suit the participant. Weekend and evening appointments are available for those who need them. Compensation will be provided.

For individuals who live too far away to visit the University of Iowa, the interview can be done locally or by telephone. Blood samples may also be done locally.

If you are interested in being a part of this genetic study, the names and phone numbers of research staff are listed below. Please call our toll free number any weekday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CST, and we will be happy to answer your questions and provide further information. In the event we are not able to answer your call in person, please leave a message and we will return your call promptly.

How to Contact Us

Nancy Hale, BS, RN
Phone: 319-353-5985
Toll Free: 888-850-8531
nancy-hale@uiowa.edu

Sheila Wilson, M.A.
Phone: 319-353-5984
Toll Free: 888-850-8531
shelia-wilson@uiowa.edu