Source Localization of Somatosensory Neural Generators in Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Neuroscience
• Motor Control

Background:

• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder frequently associated with motor skill deficits.
• Previous research identified distinct electrophysiological patterns in individuals with ADHD during visuomotor and force-matching tasks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate unique neural sources associated with somatosensory function and motor performance in individuals with ADHD.
• To compare neural activity during visuomotor and force-matching tasks between ADHD and neurotypical control groups.

Main Methods:

• Utilized source localization software (sLORETA) to analyze whole-head electroencephalography (EEG) data.
• Recorded median nerve somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) during visuomotor tracing and force-matching tasks.
• Compared neural activity between ADHD and neurotypical participants.

Main Results:

• sLORETA identified significantly greater neural activity in individuals with ADHD post-force-matching task (FMT) compared to baseline (p < 0.05).
• This increased activity was localized to Brodmann Area 31 (BA 31), precuneus, and parietal lobe (MNI: X=-5, Y=-75, Z=20) at 156 ms post-stimulation.
• No other significant differences were observed between groups or conditions.

Conclusions:

• Elevated activity in BA 31 in individuals with ADHD after FMT may indicate increased default mode network (DMN) activation or attentional shifts.
• This suggests a distinct neural response to sensory processing of force and proprioceptive input during motor tasks in ADHD.
• Findings have potential implications for understanding motor task performance reliant on proprioceptive afferent input in ADHD.