Largest study on the genetics of bipolar disorder to date gives new insights into the underlying biology

Bipolar disorder is a complex psychiatric disorder, characterized by fluctuations between episodes of (hypo)mania and depression. It is estimated to affect around 40 to 50 million people worldwide. The disorder has been linked to a number of negative outcomes, including suicide, and it can take an average of 8 years to get a diagnosis. Yet, little is known about the biology of the condition.