The Role of Epigenetics in the Pathogenesis and Potential Treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

There is increasing evidence that dysregulated epigenetic mechanisms of gene expression are involved in the pathogenesis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This review presents a comprehensive summary of the current state of research on the role of epigenetics in the pathogenesis of ADHD. The potential role of epigenetic drugs in the treatment of ADHD is also reviewed. Several studies suggest that there are epigenetic abnormalities in preclinical models of ADHD and in ADHD patients. Regarding DNA methylation, many studies have reported DNA hypermethylation. There is evidence that there is increased histone deacetylation in ADHD patients. Abnormalities in the expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) in ADHD patients have also been found. Some currently used drugs for treating ADHD, in addition to their more well-established mechanisms of action, have been shown to alter epigenetic mechanisms of gene expression. Clinical trials of epigenetic drugs in patients with ADHD report favorable results. These data suggest that abnormal epigenetic mechanisms of gene expression may be involved in the pathogenesis of ADHD. Drugs acting on epigenetic mechanisms may be a potential new class of drugs for treating ADHD.