Attention deficit / hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention (inability to concentrate), hyperactivity (inability to stay still), and impulsivity (inability to endure).It is said to be found in 5% of school-aged children, and its symptoms often persist into adulthood.General therapeutic agents are said to act on the behavior of neurotransmitters in the brain, but details such as the mechanism of symptom improvement are unknown.In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the effects of long-term use of therapeutic agents.

　This time, we conducted a study using zebrafish to compare the effects of the ADHD treatments methylphenidate and atomoxetine on brain function and behavior. Two ADHD therapeutic agents were administered to zebrafish for 2 days, and exploratory behavior and gene expression in the brain were analyzed in a novel environment.The degree of anxiety can be evaluated by observing this behavior.

　The results showed that methylphenidate enhances zebrafish anxiety-like behavior, whereas atomoxetine reduces it.

　Next, when the effect on the brain (gene expression) was investigated, a common gene could be identified from among multiple genes whose expression changed with the administration of each drug.Interestingly, these common genes behaved in opposition to each drug.Furthermore, when the functions of common genes were examined in a database, it became clear that these are involved in lipid metabolism.

　In the future, we will combine research using human specimens, and in the future, we will lead to research that can propose optimal ADHD therapeutic agents according to the characteristics of each patient.

Paper information:[Molecular Brain] Different effects of methylphenidate and atomoxetine on the behavior and brain transcriptome of zebrafish