Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, also known as
ADHD. ADHD is a condition that includes many factors, such as difficulty
sustaining attention, hyperactivity and impulsive behavior. It affects millions
of children, but boys are most susceptible to ADHD than girls. According to the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 9.5% of children between the
ages of 3-17 years are diagnosed with ADHD. In addition, about 13.5% were boys
compared to 5.4% diagnosed were girls. Many
people know that ADHD affect brain activity in individuals, but recent
evidences suggest that it can be related to genetics factors.
Bruce F. Pennington, a professor of psychology at the
University of Denver argues, “ …we known enough to say it is a brain-based
disorder, and we have some idea about which circuits are involved and which
genes.” Researchers have found that low level of dopamine in the frontal lobe
is one of the likely causes of ADHD. According to Professor Pennington, “If you
have a deficit in dopamine, it’s harder to concentrate on goal-orientated
behavior.” A recent research has identified that environmental factors may
increase the likelihood of developing ADHD, but genetic component play a larger
role.
Dr. Muenke’s group identified a gene called LPHN3 that is associated
with ADHD. This is just one of the many genes that connect to ADHD. ADHD is a
very complex disorder that includes many complex factors, including genetics.
Individuals with LPHN3 are more susceptible to developing ADHD. As mention
before, ADHD is a result of deficit of production/function of dopamine.
According to Lange, “LPHN3 function causes a reduction and misplacement of dopamine-positive
neurons in the ventral diencephalon and a hyperactive/impulsive motor
phenotype. There is a low activity of LPHN3 in patients with ADHD. There are
treatments available to help individuals with ADHD by depressing their
behaviors and help increase their attention. Therefore, early diagnoses and
treatment is key in treating ADHD.
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