Blogs » Neurognosis » Parents and Gene to blame for ADHD in Children?

Subscribe


 
Parents and Gene to blame for ADHD in Children?
By Crobar in Neurognosis
April 21, 2010

A recent study published in the journal Behavioral and Brain Functions reports the results of an examination of a community sample of 304 youth. They were examined for particular polymorphisms of a serotonin transporter gene (5HTTLPR). This particular variant has two types - "low" and "high" activity. The low activity version is a shortened allele (variant of a gene) and shows a reduction in transcription and lower uptake activity. That is this gene variant produces a smaller number of proteins and these produced proteins have a lower rate of taking serotonin back into the cell (reuptake is an important part of neurotransmission). There is also the "high" activity or long version of this gene which has been previously implicated in ADHD. However, the gene seemed to not be the only major factor at play. The other major player seems to be the child's perception of parental conflict (according to the study). Familial conflict has been shown to negatively affect children and their development - some studies have even found that such conflict may have an impact upon cortical development of the brain (well, in animal models anyway).

Basically, the conclusion is that with this gene variant and familial conflict, the child is likely to develop ADHD. While the study is very interesting further research is needed to confirm the findings (noted in their limitations section) such as family matching for genes, some longitudinal research in regard to perception of parental conflict. However, it is an interesting study and one which deserves attention and may aid in creating better treatments for ADHD.