Low serum sphingolipids in children with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biochemistry
• Genetics

Background:

• Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common childhood neuropsychiatric condition with a significant genetic influence.
• A neurodevelopmental hypothesis suggests ADHD may be linked to delayed brain maturation.
• The role of sphingolipids, crucial for brain development, in ADHD pathogenesis remains largely unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate whether serum sphingolipid profiles can differentiate individuals with ADHD from unaffected controls.
• To explore the potential association between sphingolipid metabolism and ADHD.

Main Methods:

• Serum sphingolipid profiles were analyzed using LC-MS/MS in 77 participants (28 ADHD patients, 28 related controls, 21 unrelated controls).
• ADHD diagnosis was confirmed using DSM IV-TR criteria assessed by two independent observers.
• Statistical analysis compared sphingolipid levels between ADHD patients and control groups.

Main Results:

• ADHD patients exhibited significantly reduced levels (20-30%) of specific serum sphingomyelins (C16:0, C18:0, C18:1, C24:1) and ceramides (C24:0, deoxy-ceramide C24:1).
• Decreased serum sphingomyelin levels demonstrated 79% sensitivity and 78% specificity in distinguishing ADHD patients within the study sample.

Conclusions:

• Individuals with ADHD display lower concentrations of major serum sphingomyelins.
• These altered sphingolipid levels may indicate impaired brain maturation and impact neuro-functional pathways relevant to ADHD.