Neurobiological Considerations of the mode of action of lithium carbonate in the treatment of affective disorders?

Abstract

The effects of lithium on membrane function and cellular processes are considered in relation to lithium's physiochemical properties. Several cellular regulatory functions, including cyclic AMP formation and metabolism and biogenic amine neurotransmitter metabolism, are examined as possible mechanisms whereby lithium might exert its mood stabilizing actions. The necessity for understanding lithium's interactions with "receptors" - the molecular sites affected by lithium - in considering its pre-and post-synapatic effects in stressed.