ADHD up to 15x more likely with 3 gene variants
Study identifies 3 gene variants increasing ADHD risk by up to 15x.
Why it matters
- First identification of specific high-risk genes for ADHD.
- Provides biological insight into ADHD's genetic basis.
By the numbers
- Study analyzed 9,000 with ADHD, 54,000 without.
- 15x increased risk with three gene variants.
- Genes involved: MAP1A, ANO8, ANK2.
The big picture
- Findings suggest brain development disturbances central to ADHD.
- Protein network implicated in other neurodevelopmental disorders.
- Potential for improved diagnostics and treatments.
What they're saying
- Hope for more research on treatments, not just diagnosis.
- Concerns about treatment impacts on personality.
Caveats
- Study focused on Danish population.
- More gene variants yet to be discovered.
What’s next
- Larger studies to identify more rare causal variants.
- Research into new therapeutic targets.