Search for a gene that predisposes individuals to BPI disorder.

To determine the role of genetics in bipolar affective disorders it was necessary to have correct diagnoses and large homogenous population(s). To identify a marker linked to the disease two additional factors were important, a correct model for genetic transmission and highly polymorphic DNA markers. With the establishment of a linked marker the aim is to identify the susceptibility gene. Two approaches are the prediction of candidate genes and/or the determination of a physical map of the region.