Animal models of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology
• Genetics

Background:

• Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a complex neuropsychiatric disorder affecting children and adults, characterized by hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity.
• Existing ADHD treatments offer limited efficacy, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic targets.
• Understanding the underlying neuropathological, neurochemical, and genetic factors is essential for advancing ADHD treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To consolidate and present a comprehensive overview of various animal models used in ADHD research.
• To provide a resource for researchers to select appropriate animal models for studying ADHD pathogenesis and developing interventions.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of existing literature on ADHD animal models.
• Categorization and description of different animal models based on their etiological relevance and behavioral phenotypes.
• Analysis of the strengths and limitations of each model for hypothesis testing and drug development.

Main Results:

• The review identifies and details a range of animal models that recapitulate key aspects of ADHD.
• These models offer valuable tools for investigating the neurobiological underpinnings of ADHD.
• The predictive validity of these models for assessing novel therapeutic interventions is discussed.

Conclusions:

• Animal models are indispensable for advancing ADHD research due to their utility in invasive manipulation and hypothesis testing.
• A diverse array of validated animal models exists, facilitating the study of ADHD's complex mechanisms.
• This review serves as a centralized platform to guide researchers in selecting optimal models for future ADHD therapeutic development.