ERYTHROCYTE-MEMBRANE STRUCTURE IN BIPOLAR AFFECTIVE-DISORDER - A NON-REPLICATION

Fifteen bipolar patients were compared with sixteen controls in an att empt to replicate the findings of Pettegrew et al. in 1982 of decrease d fluidity in the hydrocarbon core of the erythrocyte membrane. No sig nificant differences were seen between groups. The present control gro up shows very similar membrane characteristics to the original control series; however, the bipolar patient group is not similar. Possible e xplanations are discussed.