Diagnosing Bipolar Disorder Using Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy

ID U-5135

Category Imaging (Software)

Subcategory MRI

Brief Summary

Potential diagnostic test for Bipolar Disorder that uses 31-Phosphorous Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy to determine mitochondrial function levels in the brain.

Problem Statement

Bipolar Disorder (BD) is the fourth leading cause of disability among young people ages 10 to 24 globally. BD severely impacts quality of life by causing shifts in mood, energy, behavior, and ability to function. Many people suffer for years before obtaining an accurate diagnosis. New evidence links mitochondrial dysfunction in the brain to Bipolar Disorder.

Technology Description

Indicators of mitochondrial function in the brain can be measured using 31- Phosphorus Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (31P-MRS). A novel algorithm that compares mitochondrial function, as determined by 31P-MRS scans, to normal levels provides objective and reliable diagnoses. Additional scans could assess efficacy of prescribed treatments by comparing current mitochondrial function to patients’ initial levels.

Stage of Development

Validation Testing

Benefit

  • Potential to provide consistent, reliable, and objective diagnosis of bipolar disorder.
  • Decreases time required to obtain accurate diagnoses.
  • Improves patient outcomes by enabling quicker delivery of treatment.
  • Facilitates objective tracking of treatment efficacy.

Publications

Shi X, Kondo D, Sung Y, Hellem T, Fiedler K, Jeong E, Huber R, Renshaw P (2012). Frontal lobe bioenergetics metabolism in depressed adolescents with bipolar disorder: a phosphorus-31 magnetic resonance spectroscopy study. Bipolar Disorders. 14(6): 607–617. doi: 10.1111/j.1399-5618.2012.01040.x

IP

Publication Number: US-2013-0123605-A1
Patent Title: Brain Phosphorus Spectroscopy in Bipolar Disorder
Jurisdiction/Country: United States
Application Type: Non-Provisional

Contact Info

Jason Young
(801) 587-0519
jason.r.young@utah.edu

Questions?

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