Genetic ADHA Caused By Signaling Pathways in the Brain

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) effects a majority of our youth in America. An article was written in Bio News about genes and how it may correlate to ADHD.  A new gene study on a subset of individuals with ADHD may lead to new treatments of this disorder.  Hakon Hakonarson, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Center for Applied Genomics at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia led the study stating that "he genes involved affect neurotransmitter systems in the brain that have been implicated in ADHD."  The study began with a complete genome sequence of 1,000 children of European ancestry and compared the subjects with 4,100 children without the disorder.  Researchers found that children with ADHD have alterations in GMR5 genes which effect nerve transmission.  This research may lead to treatments instead of hiding behind the disorder with mind altering harsh drugs.