Lithium can be effective in the treatment of bipolar disorder because it A) opens up the lithium ion channel. B) acts as a second messenger accelerating the IP₃/DAG signal transduction pathway. C) inhibits G protein activation of phospholipase C and inhibits synthesis of IP₃. D) changes the osmotic balance of cells. E) acts as a neurotransmitter.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Lithium inhibits G protein activation of phospholipase C and inhibits synthesis of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3), which plays a role in the pathway of calcium release from intracellular stores. This affects neurotransmitter signaling in the brain and can help to stabilize mood in individuals with bipolar disorder.

Lithium Can Be Effective in the Treatment of Bipolar Disorder