Lithium has been used as the main element in bipolar drugs for a while, although there has been a lack of knowledge why this treatment is so effective for those with mood disorders.

However, recent research has shed light on the chemical and its molecular structure, showing why lithium has such important therapeutic effects.

Carmay Lim of Academia Sinica in Taiwan conducted research into lithium, telling Chemistry World: “Our findings will promote further research of side effects caused by lithium and also understanding other possible targets of lithium therapies.

The scientists proved that lithium ions compete with sodium ions for sodium-binding sites in signal transducing proteins. These include G-protein coupled receptors that are implicated in those with bipolar disorder.

These possess sodium binding sites that are susceptible to lithium attack; therefore, lithium binding helps to reduce G-protein activity.

Evan Snyder, neuroscience expert at the Sandford-Burnham Medical Research Institute in America, commented on the findings.

He said it was not that scientists did not know what lithium did previously, but just that “it does too much”.

The expert added that by understanding the activity of lithium more, medical researchers can “design drugs that are much more specific, and ideally more effective, with fewer side effects”.

This will make a huge impact for those suffering from bipolar, with the mood stabilisers being able to target symptoms more effectively. Currently, the NHS treats those with the condition with lithium carbonate, anticonvulsant medicines and antipsychotic medicines.

These affect the different elements of bipolar, including depression, mania and even psychotic episodes.

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