Investigating the Expression of NMDA Receptors and Cognitive Function in Children with ADHD: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Emerging evidence from clinical, genetic, and animal model studies suggests that N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) glutamate receptors (NMDAR) may contribute to the pathophysiology and etiology of neurological and psychiatric disorders. Patients with impaired NMDA receptors often experience psychological symptoms. Therefore, we hypothesized that NMDAR receptors play a key role in the development of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In this comparative analytical study, we utilized the Western blotting method to assay the expression levels of NMDA subunits NR1 and NR2 in the blood plasma of 50 male individuals diagnosed with ADHD, comparing them to 20 healthy controls. The findings from the Western blotting analysis provide support for the hypothesis that individuals with ADHD exhibit significantly lower levels of NR1/2 receptors compared to those without the disorder. Further research is needed to explore the potential causal relationship between reduced NR1/NR2 receptor levels and the development of ADHD.