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Decreased Serum Cu/Zn SOD Associated with High Copper in Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

A J Russo1

  • 1Research Director, Health Research Institute/Pfeiffer Treatment Center, 4575 Weaver Parkway, Warrenville, Illinois 60555, USA.

Journal of Central Nervous System Disease
|July 18, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Serum copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn SOD) levels are significantly lower in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This finding suggests a potential link between Cu/Zn SOD and ADHD, especially in those with high copper levels.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Pediatric Medicine
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder.
  • Oxidative stress may play a role in the pathophysiology of ADHD.
  • Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) is a key antioxidant enzyme.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To measure serum copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn SOD) concentrations in children diagnosed with ADHD.
  • To investigate the relationship between serum Cu/Zn SOD levels and serum copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) concentrations in children with ADHD.

Main Methods:

  • Serum samples were collected from children with ADHD, healthy controls, and autistic children.
  • Cu/Zn SOD levels were quantified using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assays (ELISAs).
  • Serum copper and zinc levels were determined using inductively-coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS).

Main Results:

  • Children with ADHD exhibited significantly lower serum Cu/Zn SOD levels compared to healthy controls (P < 0.001).
  • Serum Cu/Zn SOD levels were also significantly lower in ADHD children with high serum copper concentrations (P = 0.024).
  • No significant correlation was found between Cu/Zn SOD levels and serum zinc or overall copper/zinc ratio in the ADHD group.

Conclusions:

  • The study indicates a significant association between reduced serum Cu/Zn SOD levels and ADHD in children.
  • High serum copper levels in ADHD children may be linked to lower Cu/Zn SOD concentrations.
  • Further research is warranted to elucidate the role of Cu/Zn SOD and copper metabolism in ADHD pathogenesis.
Abstract

Keywords:
ADHDCu/Zn SODcoppersuper oxide dismutase

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