• Project Dates: From May 2015
• Project Leader: Dr David Cousins
• Staff: Carly Bennett

Magnetic resonance (MR) techniques hold great potential in predicting response to lithium for the treatment of bipolar disorder. In a large cross-sectional study we will systematically appraise brain structure and composition in lithium responders and non-responders, in comparison with a control group. The potential predictive value of MR variables in isolation and combination will be determined, in anticipation of future randomised, controlled longitudinal studies.

Our advanced multimodal MR techniques will be supplemented by the development and application of a novel multinuclear 7Li true 3D imaging sequence. This will provide high-resolution images of the distribution of lithium in the brain, analysed with respect to response.

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