Meta-analyses have consistently found decreased BDNF levels during manic and depressive episodes and normal levels during remission9–11 and further that BDNF levels may increase following successful treatment of a manic episode.10 In addition, at least two studies that include patients with bipolar disorder who were intensively treated with mood stabilisers have found increased BDNF levels during euthymia.31,32 These data may further support the possibility that early medical (and psychological) intervention may add even further to increase BDNF levels as suggested by the present findings. The gene discussed is BDNF; the disease is bipolar disorder.