Oxidative Stress in Bipolar Disorder: a Meta-analysis of Oxidative Stress Markers and an Investigation of the Hippocampus

Bipolar disorder is a prevalent and debilitating disease, however, its pathophysiology remains unknown. There is substantial evidence of oxidative damage in bipolar disorder from both peripheral and post-mortem samples, especially in the prefrontal cortex. It is the objective of this study to consolidate research measuring oxidative stress biomarkers in bipolar disorder through a meta-analysis and to determine if the hippocampus region is a specific target of oxidative damage through a biochemical study using post-mortem samples. Results from this study further confirm the presence of oxidative damage in bipolar disorder, but suggest that the hippocampus is not a target. We have also shown a global increase of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine in the hippocampus of patients with schizophrenia, suggesting a possible alteration in the demethylation pathway. Determining the exact targets of oxidative stress in bipolar disorder may lead to biomarker development, better treatment and diagnostic options, and ultimately, a better quality of life for patients.M.Sc