The dopamine transporter: relevance to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Bertha K Madras1, Gregory M Miller, Alan J Fischman
1Department of Psychiatry, New England Regional Primate Research Center, Harvard Medical School, 1 Pine Hill Drive, Southborough, MA 01772-9102, USA. bertha_madras@hms.harvard.edu
Abstract:
The dopamine transporter is elevated in adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) compared with healthy controls [Lancet 354 (1999) 2132]. The findings have been confirmed by others in a different population using a different probe for the dopamine transporter. Notwithstanding the need to confirm these findings in a multi-center trial, several hypotheses are presented to account for these observations. A premise that elevated transporter levels result from medication is not supported by current data. Other possibilities, including hypertrophy of dopamine neuronal terminals in the striatum, dysfunctional regulation of dopamine or dopamine receptors, or anomalies in the dopamine transporter gene are presented as hypotheses. The feasibility of exploring these mechanisms in animal models or in human subjects is explored.
More Related Videos
13:09Using Brain Activation (nir-HEG/Q-EEG) and Execution Measures (CPTs) in a ADHD Assessment Protocol
Published on: April 1, 2018
11:26Assessment of Dopaminergic Homeostasis in Mice by Use of High-performance Liquid Chromatography Analysis and Synaptosomal Dopamine Uptake
Published on: September 21, 2017
Related Concept Videos
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Drugs Affecting Neurotransmitter Synthesis
Drugs Affecting Neurotransmitter Release or Uptake
Human Genetics
The complex relationship between genetics and psychology is observable through common biological components such...
CNS Stimulants: Cocaine, Amphetamines and Cannabinoids
Drug Abuse and Addiction: Pharmacological Phenomena
