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Genetic influences on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

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Abstract

In this article we review behavioral and molecular genetics studies of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Family, twin, and adoption studies, along with segregation analyses and molecular genetic studies, all support the hypothesis that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to the etiology of ADHD. Despite this strong evidence for the familial transmission of ADHD, the mode of transmission requires further clarification. In addition, because ADHD appears to be genetically heterogeneous, more work is needed to delineate genetically homogeneous subtypes and describe the range of expression of their underlying genotypes.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Harvard Institute of Psychiatry, Epidemiology, and Genetics, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts Hospital Center, Harvard University, 750 Washington Street, Suite 255, 02375, South Easton, MA, USA

    Stephen V. Faraone PhD

  2. Clinical & Research Program in Pediatric Psychopharmacology, Child Psychiatry, ACC-725, Massachusetts General Hospital, 15 Parkman Street, 02114, Boston, MA, USA

    Alysa E. Doyle PhD

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  2. Alysa E. Doyle PhD
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Faraone, S.V., Doyle, A.E. Genetic influences on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2, 143–146 (2000). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-000-0059-6

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