Report from the second international meeting of the Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Molecular Genetics...

Given evidence from twin, family, and adoption studies of genetic influence on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a growing number of researchers have initiated molecular genetics studies to explore the influence of specific genes on this condition. In 1999, these investigators convened to discuss ways of sharing information and facilitating collaborations across research sites. Enthusiastic response to this first conference prompted an even larger group of investigators to come together this year. This recent meeting, held in London, began with a presentation of Hypescheme, an operational criteria checklist developed in an effort to promote the reliable communication of diagnostic and other relevant clinical information related to ADHD. The benefits and limitations of Hypescheme, as well as the continued challenges to collaboration, were discussed. A new ADHD-specific rating scale, developed to be of use in genetic analyses, was also presented. Focus then turned to collaborative projects proposed by investigators and practical suggestions regarding joint data analyses projects. Finally, new data from individual sites were presented. Because the mode of inheritance of ADHD is likely to be complex, efforts to collaborate and cross-validate findings remain an important priority for researchers studying the molecular genetics of this disorder.