Heinz C. Prechter Bipolar Research Program
About Us
The Heinz C. Prechter Bipolar Research Program’s mission is to discover the mechanisms that contribute to bipolar disorder, predict and improve outcomes, and develop effective innovative treatments. Our vision Is to build a future where personalized and evidenced-based treatments for bipolar disorder will enable every individual with the illness to lead a healthy and productive life. This is done through the study of the longitudinal course of the illness in people who are diagnosed with bipolar. Research in the prechter program is interdisciplinary and emphasizes the interaction of biology (including genetics), clinical, and environmental determinants of health.
Dr. Sperry is a key investigator with the the Heinz C. Prechter Research Program and research in the Emote Lab will be seamlessly integrated into the Prechter Longitudinal Study of Bipolar Disorder. Dr. Sperry is involved with several established programs of research within the center including the:
Longitudinal Study of Bipolar Disorder: This is the nations longest (~13 years) and largest (~1,300 individuals) longitudinal study of Bipolar Disorder. Participants complete initial research evaluations, bi-monthly questionnaires, neuropsychological testing, and interviews performed at various time intervals. Participants are also asked to contribute blood and saliva samples.