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A novel functional imaging study of theory of mind in bipolar disorder
Abstract   Peer reviewed

A novel functional imaging study of theory of mind in bipolar disorder

Gin S Malhi, Jim Lagopoulos, Kirsteen L Moss and Catherine M Cahill
Bipolar Disorders, Vol.9(Supplement 2), p.6
Australasian Society for Bipolar Disorders Conference, 2007 (Sydney, Australia, 20-Sep-2007–22-Sep-2007)
2007
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1399-5618.2007.00541.x
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https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1399-5618.2007.00541.xView
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Abstract

Clinical Sciences Neurosciences cognition fMRI theory of mind
Objective: Patients with bipolar disorder report impairments ofsocial functioning and the maintenance of relationships. This'compromise' is often accompanied by cognitive deficits acrossmood states. An area of executive functioning that has saliencein this context is that of Theory of Mind (ToM). ToMunderpins an individual's ability to comprehend and respondsuitably by way of attributing mental states to others. We soughtto explore this using a novel functional magnetic resonanceimaging (fMRI) compatible ToM paradigm.Methods: Twenty adult right-handed euthymic bipolar patientsand twenty age and gender-matched controls underwent clinicalassessment and fMRI using a ToM paradigm. Subjects completeda 10 min block design experiment using alternating ToM and non-ToM conditions. fMRI volumes were acquired using a gradientecho planar imaging sequence and each volume contained 28-non-interleaved-4 mm thick slices. T1-weighted high-resolution imageswere also acquired. Concurrent eye-movement recording allowedpsychophysiological measures to be acquired.Results: Findings from preliminary analyses indicate the presenceof a differential pattern of prefrontal activation between the twogroups. Both groups showed activation in occipital regionsconsistent with recognition of shape, colour and movement -however, only the control group had activation in the prefrontalcortex to the ToM condition.Conclusions: A lack of activation to ToM in bipolar patientssuggests dysfunction of fronto-limbic regulation that forms thesubstrate of social cognition. This has salience both clinically andwith respect to better understanding the pathophysiology ofbipolar disorder.

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