Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A plausible mouse model?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a multifactorial and heterogeneous disorder, highly prevalent in children and characterized by three main components: inattention, lack of inhibitory control and hyperactivity. Epidemiological evidence reveals that ADHD is associated with nicotine exposure, mostly, with prenatal cigarette smoking. Mice deleted for the beta 2-subunit gene of the neuronal nicotinic receptor are proposed as a simple and reliable animal model for ADHD. Conclusion: Nicotinic agonists targeting the alpha 4 beta 2 nicotinic receptors alleviate ADHD symptoms and may possibly contribute to an efficient therapy of ADHD children.