Altered spontaneous low frequency brain activity in attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Suzannah K Helps1, Samantha J Broyd, Christopher J James
1Institute for Disorders for Impulse and Attention, Developmental Brain-Behaviour Laboratory, School of Psychology, University of Southampton, UK.
Brain Research
|February 2, 2010
Summary
Children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) exhibit altered resting brain activity. Their brains show reduced very low frequency power and less attenuation during task transitions, impacting performance.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
Background:
- Resting brain activity patterns are altered in Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
- The default mode interference hypothesis suggests that unattenuated resting brain activity causes attention lapses in ADHD during task performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the default mode interference hypothesis in children with ADHD using DC-EEG.
- To examine very low frequency brain activity during rest and task performance in ADHD.
Main Methods:
- DC-EEG recordings of very low frequency brain activity (<1.5Hz) were obtained.
- 16 male children with ADHD and 16 healthy controls were studied during rest and a two-choice reaction time task.
Main Results:
- A very low frequency resting network was replicated.
- Children with ADHD showed reduced EEG power in very low frequency bands (.02-.2Hz) at rest.
- Reduced attenuation of this power during rest-to-task transition was observed and associated with performance measures.
Conclusions:
- Altered very low frequency brain activity is confirmed in ADHD.
- ADHD may involve deficits in maintaining resting brain states and protecting active states from resting state intrusions.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
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