Attention+Deficit+Hyperactivity+Disorder

Elizabeth McLaughlin University of New Hampshire at Manchester eae62@wildcats.unh.edu

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is the most common neurodevelopmental disorder in the world. In children, the prevalence of ADHD can range from 2% to 10% (Lee et. al 2014). The most common onset of ADHD is childhood and the disorder can cause behavioral problems through adolescence and adulthood.
 * Background **

ADHD is more common in children with parents who also have it, and it is even more common in siblings. There are many genes that are thought to be in connection with the cause of ADHD, based on studies done on family members, including twins, of people with ADHD (Faraone, S. V., Mick, E. 2010). The gene that has the strongest association with ADHD is dopamine receptor d4, or DRD4 (Tovo-Rodrigues, L. et al. 2013). The polymorphism (or variation) of this gene that has been studied the most in connection with ADHD is a variable number tandem repeat that is located on the third exon of the gene. Variable tandem repeats can vary from individual to individual.

The signs and symptoms of ADHD can include:
 * Signs and Symptom **
 * difficulty staying focused
 * difficulty paying attention
 * difficulty controlling behavior
 * hyperactivity
 * impulsive behavior

Can other species have ADHD based on mutations in the DRD4 gene? What are some treatments for ADHD and how do they work?
 * Research Questions **

Primary Research Methods Data Data Analysis References