Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. At Protheragen, we focus on developing novel therapeutics and building accurate animal models to accelerate preclinical studies of potential therapies for ADHD. Our expertise ensures that client's research receives the most reliable and relevant support, accelerating their drug development journey.
Overview of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that impair daily functioning. It affects both children and adults, with global prevalence estimated at 5-7% in children and 2.5-5% in adults. The disorder arises from complex interactions between genetic factors, alterations in brain structure and function (particularly prefrontal-striatal-cerebellar circuits), and environmental influences.
Fig.1 Multifactorial complexity of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). (Da Silva B S, et al., 2023)
Pathogenesis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
The pathogenesis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is primarily driven by polygenic mutations affecting dopaminergic and noradrenergic neurotransmission, particularly in genes regulating synaptic function (e.g., DRD4, DAT1, COMT), which disrupt development and function of prefrontal-striatal-cerebellar circuits essential for executive function, attention, and behavioral inhibition.
Fig.2 Role of inflammation and oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and potential adjuvant therapy. (Alvarez-Arellano L, et al., 2020)
Therapeutic Development for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
| Drug Names | Mechanism of Action | Targets | Research Phase |
| Methylphenidate | Blocks dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake | DAT, NET | Approved |
| Amphetamine | Releases and blocks reuptake of monoamines | VMAT2, TAAR1, DAT, NET | Approved |
| Atomoxetine | Selectively blocks norepinephrine reuptake | NET | Approved |
| Guanfacine | Activates prefrontal alpha-2A adrenergic receptors | Alpha-2A adrenergic receptor | Approved |
Disclaimer: Protheragen focuses on providing preclinical research services. This table is for information exchange purposes only. This table is not a treatment plan recommendation. For guidance on treatment options, please visit a regular hospital.
Our Services
As a professional preclinical research service provider, Protheragen is dedicated to accelerating breakthroughs in the field of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). We offer end-to-end solutions encompassing diagnostic development, novel therapeutic development, precise disease modeling, and rigorous preclinical validation. Our blood-brain barrier model enables critical assessments of drug permeability in the central nervous system (CNS), ensuring optimal brain exposure while minimizing systemic toxicity, thus expediting the development of effective therapies.
Therapeutic Development Services
By Mechanism of Action
Disease Model Development Services
In Vitro Model Development
- Spontaneously Hypertensive Rat
- Naples High-Excitability Rat
- Acallosal Mouse
- DAT Knockout Mouse
- DAT Knockdown Mouse
- Other Models
At Protheragen, we are committed to validating and optimizing therapies for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) through preclinical studies including pharmacodynamics (PD), pharmacokinetics (PK) and toxicology to ensure their successful regulatory approval. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us for more details and quotation information of related services.
References
- Da Silva B S, Grevet E H, Silva L C F, et al. An overview on neurobiology and therapeutics of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder[J]. Discover Mental Health, 2023, 3(1): 2.
- Alvarez-Arellano L, González-García N, Salazar-García M, et al. Antioxidants as a potential target against inflammation and oxidative stress in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder[J]. Antioxidants, 2020, 9(2): 176.