A Genetic Link to ADHD

ADHD, a complex neuropsychiatric disorder, can be found in approximately 7% of school-age children. Researchers from the Center for Applied Genomics at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia have identified four gene variants, all members of the glutamate receptor gene family, that appear to be involved in vital brain signaling pathways in a sub-set of children with this disorder. Although only about 10% of ADHD patients harbor these particular gene variants, this discovery may serve as the explanation for the observed link between genetics and this disorder. The findings also could possibly result in new drug therapy for those afflicted.