Current Evidence on the Role of the Gut Microbiome in ADHD Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Implications

While many pediatric studies have investigated the relationship between autism spectrum disorder and the microbiome-gut-brain axis (the communication between the gut microbiome and the central nervous system), this 2021 paper focuses on the potential role of this microbiome-gut-brain axis (MGBA) in attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Although ADHD is the most common neurodevelopmental disorder in children, the research on this association has been limited and variable. Thus, the purpose of this present review was to present the current evidence on the functioning of the MGBA in children with ADHD and explain how omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs) play a particular role in this interaction. In addition, the authors explore the possibility of utilizing the gut microbiome as a therapeutic target for ADHD. This review covers the following topics: the diverse interplay between the gut microbiome and the central nervous system; the influence of the gut microbiota on the imbalance in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids seen in ADHD; and the current literature on probiotic use in pediatric patients with ADHD. In addition, the paper addresses the altered composition of gut microbiota observed in children and adolescents with ADHD, and how this relates to irregular physiological processes linked with the disorder. Finally, the article examines the connection between the gut microbiome and the regulation of circadian rhythm since sleep disorders often accompany ADHD. [NPID: ADHD, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, microbiome, microbiota, bacteria, probiotics, omega-3, fatty acids, PUFAs, children, adolescents]

Year: 2021

Reference: Checa-Ros, A., Jeréz-Calero, A., Molina-Carballo, A., Campoy, C., & Muñoz-Hoyos, A. (2021). Current Evidence on the Role of the Gut Microbiome in ADHD Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Implications. Nutrients, 13(1), 249. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13010249

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