Recent advances in understanding of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): how genetics are shaping our conceptualization of this disorder

Tetyana Zayats; Benjamin M Neale

doi:10.12688/f1000research.18959.2

Recent advances in understanding of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): how genetics are shaping our conceptualization of this disorder

F1000Res. 2019 Dec 5:8:F1000 Faculty Rev-2060. doi: 10.12688/f1000research.18959.2. eCollection 2019.

Authors

Tetyana Zayats^{1

2}, Benjamin M Neale^{1

2}

Affiliations

¹ Analytic and Translational Genetics Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
² Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA.

Abstract

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a clinically defined disorder, and inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity are its main symptom domains. The presentation, lifelong continuation and treatment response of ADHD symptoms, however, is highly heterogeneous. To better define, diagnose, treat and prevent ADHD, it is essential that we understand the biological processes underlying all of these elements. In this review, given the high heritability of ADHD, we discuss how and why genetics can foster such progress. We examine what genetics have taught us so far with regard to ADHD definition, classification, clinical presentation, diagnosis and treatment. Finally, we offer a prospect of what genetic studies on ADHD may bring in the future.

Keywords: ADHD; Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder; Genome-wide association studies; Pharmacogenetics; genetic predisposition; genetics.

Publication types

Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Review

MeSH terms

Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity*
Cognition
Concept Formation
Humans
Impulsive Behavior

Abstract

Publication types

MeSH terms

Grants and funding