Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) Dysregulation

Title:Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) Dysregulation

Volume: 20 Issue: 32

Author(s): Jane Pei-Chen Chang, Hsien-Yuan Lane and Guochuan E. Tsai

Affiliation:

Keywords: ADHD, NMDA, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, glycine, glutamate, treatment.

Abstract: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a long recognized and common childhood disorder. ADHD adolescents tend to encounter more difficulties in school and peer relationships, whereas ADHD adults have more occupational and interpersonal difficulties. However, with the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) stimulants, 10-20 % of the patients still remain poor responders to treatment. Among hypotheses for ADHD, dysfunction of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA)-type glutamate receptors has recently been suggested by accumulating genetic and animal studies. This article systemically reviews evidence supporting NMDA dysfunction as a potential ADHD pathogenesis from perspectives of neurodevelopment, attentional circuitry, and impulse inhibition. The review also addresses the development of novel treatments for ADHD via modulation of glutamatergic system, particularly the NMDA/glycine site. These so-called NMDA enhancers may provide a new treatment option for patients with ADHD.

Cite this article as:

Chang Pei-Chen Jane, Lane Hsien-Yuan and Tsai E. Guochuan, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) Dysregulation, Current Pharmaceutical Design 2014; 20 (32) . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/1381612819666140110115227