Broadband Near Infrared Spectroscopy to Understand the Role of Brain Cytochrome C Oxidase in Bipolar Disorder

Broadband Near Infrared Spectroscopy to Elucidate the of Role Cortical Brain Cytochrome C Oxidase Activity in the Pathophysiology of Bipolar Disorder

People with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder who are depressed will have a light-based imaging of the brain (Near Infrared Spectroscopy) before and after they have treatment for their depression with a standard, approved medication named lurasidone. They will also answer questions about their history, and give blood samples. The goal is to understand the role of mitochondrial activity in bipolar disorder. Healthy volunteers who have never had a psychiatric disorder will have the same procedures, but they will not receive the medication.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of bipolar disorder
• Having symptoms of depression
• Taking less than three medications for bipolar disorder

Exclusion Criteria:

• Taking any medications that cannot be combined with lurasidone
• Any medical problems that are not well treated
• Any drug or alcohol use disorders that are moderate or severe
• Any severe suicidal ideation, or having had a suicide attempt in the last five years
• Any psychotic symptoms that have occurred outside of a mood episode
• Any electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) within the last six months
• Currently pregnant or planning to become pregnant during the time of the study