Chronic lithium treatment alters the excitatory/inhibitory balance of synaptic networks and reduces mGluR5–PKC signalling in mouse cortical neurons

Abstract

Together, the results revealed how lithium dampens neuronal excitability and the activity of the glutamatergic network, both of which are predicted to be overactive in the manic phase of bipolar disorder. Our working model of lithium action enables the development of targeted strategies to restore the balance of overactive networks, mimicking the therapeutic benefits of lithium but with reduced toxicity.