New Research: Brain scans and ADHD

Newly published research out of the University of Michigan Department of Psychiatry shows that children with ADHD show slower development of brain connectivity than neurotypical children.  The studies were done with functional MRI scans of a pool of 750 people who had allowed their brain scans to be used for general research.

Functional MRI scans of the brain involve two things:

1)  MRI scanning:  The patient goes into a huge magnet and then a pulse of magnetic energy is applied.  Chemical bonds in the body respond differently to the pulse of magnetic energy, releasing a signal that can be measured and plotted on an image of the body.

2)  functional scanning:  This involves a chemical tracer, usually delivered via an injection or IV line.  The chemical tracer usually is used in some kind of metabolic pathway of interest.  For example, 

While some media are touting the research as a possible new way to diagnose ADHD, some caution is necessary.    The research wasn't really designed as a tool to detect ADHD, so we don't know how good such a test would be if it were applied in a sample of the typical people showing up in a primary care doctor's office.  It is too soon to tell if the tools used for this study could be used to improve diagnosis.

However, the results of this research do point the way toward answers to some of our most pressing questions about ADHD, such as:

Why do some people grow out of ADHD and some don't?

Why do people have ADHD?

What brain chemistry can we target to better treat ADHD, and promote better long term outcomes?

The researchers who published this research are currently looking for volunteers for followup studies.  They are looking for people aged 7-adult with and without ADHD.  Since the studies involve MRI  (a huge magnet) volunteers may not have metal implants anywhere in their body.

Please note:  I have no financial connection with this research project and I make no representation as to whether participation in the research studies mentioned above are worth the investment of your time or potential physical risks you may encounter.

Everything ADHD Medical Disclaimer
Everything ADHD Privacy Policy