Oxford University and Sound Pharmaceuticals have teamed up test a new drug for bipolar disorder in its phase two trials.

The drug, dubbed SPI-1005, contains ebselen, a synthetic molecule which mimics and induces the brain activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) – the efficacy of which is believed to be significantly disadvantaged in bipolar sufferers.

Scientists have also found reduced GPx activity in the brains of patients suffering from autism, schizophrenia, dementia and brain injuries, meaning that the new drug could prove beneficial across the whole spectrum of mental illness.

Experts believe that in cases of bipolar disorder, SPI-1005 will produce far less unwanted side effects than current treatments available for the condition, such as Lithium.

Professor Phillip Cowen, principal investigator of the study from Oxford University, said: “Based on the novel anti-inflammatory activity of ebselen, together with its Lithium-like effects on signal transduction, we hope that it will benefit patients with bipolar illness.”

Jonathan Kil MD, CEO at Sound Pharmaceuticals, said: “We are committed to testing our novel investigational drugs in human diseases where the unmet medical need has devastating societal impact.”