Large-scale brain systems in ADHD: beyond the prefrontal-striatal model.
F Xavier Castellanos1, Erika Proal
1Phyllis Green and Randolph Cowen Institute for Pediatric Neuroscience, Child Study Center, NYU Langone School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA. francisco.castellanos@nyumc.org
Trends in Cognitive Sciences
|December 16, 2011
Summary
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) involves more brain networks than previously thought. New research highlights the role of large-scale neural systems in ADHD, offering insights into its complex symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Systems Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Traditional ADHD models focus on prefrontal-striatal circuitry.
- Other large-scale brain networks' roles in ADHD have been overlooked.
- Advances in systems neuroscience enable broader network analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review progress in delineating large-scale neural systems relevant to ADHD.
- To illustrate the involvement of multiple resting-state networks in ADHD pathophysiology.
- To connect specific networks to ADHD's functional and structural literature.
Main Methods:
- Review of systems neuroscience-based approaches to brain dysfunction.
- Analysis of large-scale resting-state networks in ADHD.
- Mapping intrinsic brain connectivity networks.
Main Results:
- Frontoparietal, dorsal attentional, motor, visual, and default networks are linked to ADHD.
- Brain connectivity network mapping offers a mechanistic framework for ADHD.
- Potential role of primary visual cortex in ADHD-related attentional dysfunction identified.
Conclusions:
- ADHD pathophysiology involves multiple large-scale neural systems beyond the prefrontal-striatal circuit.
- Understanding intrinsic brain connectivity networks is crucial for explaining ADHD heterogeneity.
- This network-based approach provides a framework for future ADHD research and treatment strategies.
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.
01:15Functional Brain Systems: Limbic System
The limbic system, often called the "emotional brain," is a complex set of structures located deep within the brain. The intricate network of the limbic system supports a wide range of psychological functions, from emotional regulation to memory formation and sensory processing. This functional brain region encompasses specific parts of the diencephalon and the cerebrum, integrating the higher mental functions of the cerebral cortex with the primitive emotional responses of the deep brain...
01:30Organization of the Brain
The brain is an integral component of the nervous system and serves as the center for processing sensory inputs, making decisions, and directing bodily actions. This complex organ is organized into three primary sections: the hindbrain, midbrain, and forebrain, each responsible for a range of vital functions.
Hindbrain
The hindbrain, located at the base of the brain, plays a vital role in regulating automatic processes that sustain life. It includes the medulla oblongata, which is essential for...
Hindbrain
The hindbrain, located at the base of the brain, plays a vital role in regulating automatic processes that sustain life. It includes the medulla oblongata, which is essential for...
01:26Modeling in Therapy
Modeling, a key technique in therapy, uses observational learning to help clients acquire and practice new skills by watching therapists demonstrate desired behaviors. This approach, rooted in Albert Bandura's concept of vicarious learning, plays a significant role in therapeutic interventions for various psychological conditions, including social anxiety, ADHD, and depression.
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
01:13Functional Brain Systems: Reticular Formation
The reticular formation is a complex network of gray and white matter located within the brainstem extending from the medulla to the midbrain.
Within the reticular formation, there are several distinct nuclei that can be classified into three broad categories. The Raphe nuclei are located along the midline of the brainstem. They are primarily known for their role in synthesizing and releasing serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood, appetite, sleep, and circadian rhythms. The...
Within the reticular formation, there are several distinct nuclei that can be classified into three broad categories. The Raphe nuclei are located along the midline of the brainstem. They are primarily known for their role in synthesizing and releasing serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood, appetite, sleep, and circadian rhythms. The...
01:14Role of Cerebellum and Prefrontal Cortex in Memory
The cerebellum, while traditionally associated with motor control, also plays a crucial role in memory, particularly in procedural memory, which involves learning motor tasks that become automatic through repetition. For example, studies have shown that when the cerebellum is damaged, individuals or animals lose the ability to learn conditioned motor responses, such as the conditioned eye-blink response in classical conditioning experiments with rabbits. This study demonstrates the cerebellum's...