Gut microbiome and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder: a systematic review

This systematic review aims to examine the associations between features of gut microbiome and Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) risk or severity in children, adolescents and young adults.

Eligible studies were identified in PubMed and Google Scholar databases until December 31, 2020.

The search identified a total of 1197 items, of which 11 were included in this systematic review. The findings regarding alpha, beta diversity, bacterial phyla, orders and families were inconclusive. At the genus level an increased abundance of Odoribacter (two studies) and Eggerthella (two studies) was found in ADHD; on the contrary, decreased abundance of Faecalibacterium (three studies) was noted, whereas one study suggested its inverse association with ADHD severity and hyperactivity. One study indicated that Bacteroides species also correlated with levels of hyperactivity and impulsivity. At the species level, a lower abundance of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, but higher of Odoribacter splanchnicus and Bacteroides uniformis was reported.

This systematic review highlights associations between gut microbiome features and ADHD. Potential mechanisms differ by microorganism and include effects on neurotransmitter production, dopamine metabolism, modulation of inflammation and neurodevelopment through the release of cytokines.

The existence of correlations between features of gut microbiome and ADHD manifestation or its severity in children, adolescents and young adults. Associations between gut microbiome features and ADHD are highlighted. Potential mechanisms seem to differ by microorganism and include effects on neurotransmitter production, dopamine metabolism, modulation of inflammation and neurodevelopment through the release of cytokines. As correlations between gut microbiome features and ADHD seem to exist, additional studies are needed for further investigation.