There is a clear need for cell-based models of BP to test genetic and epigenetic factors, the role of the environment (particularly stress), to determine when neuronal differentiation is affected, and to identify and test new therapeutic approaches. The recent discovery that four transcription factors can reprogram adult somatic cells into PSCs41 has provided an important tool to study human disease.31,57,58 In addition to interrogating the many hypotheses regarding the etiology of BP, the iPSC will be useful in modeling and comparing with other neuropsychiatric disorders that have developmental or affective phenotypes. The banked fibroblast lines also provide a valuable resource for direct reprogramming of the desired cell or neuronal subtype and for alternative reprogramming technologies.
